Well, I went ahead and purchased this BC, a buddy that went with me to CZM brought it down. I also got the Mares Abyss Reg and its octopus, and a Suunto Cobra computer. I love the BC and the Regs.... just great. A totally different feel from the other conventional BC's Ive tried. The Suunto is full of features that I have to try, but I can say I did notice how much more conservative it is vs. say the Alladin units. I also got a pair of Volo's (Mares Fins). After 1-2 dives to get the integrated weight system right, the Synchro BC felt just right. I started off heavy on the weights and was able to settle with 12lbs (using a wet suit - shortie). Perhaps with some experimentation I could go even lower. Overall, after 10 dives Im very happy with the equipment... 
