Question about 2nd stage

[BoltSnap]

I use a SS for the backup the same as the primary. I donate the primary and switch to the backup and thus I prefer to use the same quality backup as the primary.

 

[divad]

I prefer to use the same quality backup as the primary.

Yes, works the same with Zeagle and Hog. Or Hog and Zeagle.

 

[BoltSnap]

Yes, works the same with Zeagle and Hog. Or Hog and Zeagle.

I use the same brand and model for both the primary and backup.

 

[GCullen94]

Miguel, the HOG regulator is one of the best regulators out there. The problem with the Hollis reg is the fact it is upstream, many tech agencies do not like upstream regulators. Also upstream regulators TYPICALLY have a higher IP set point. (The poseidon cyclon IP is 180-190PSI) This means the regulator will be very, very hard to breath when attached to your Zeagle first stage that has a normal IP of 130-140PSI. Take a look at the HOG regulator, Apeks XTX 40/50, and if you are set on Hollis the 212, The Dive Rite XT will also work well.

More expensive is not always better when it comes to gear choices. I have made that mistake before.

 

[divad]

I use the same brand and model for both the primary and backup.

And..........?

 

[BoltSnap]

I don't mix brands. I standardize my equipment and use top of the line for primary and backup that have the same specs.

 

[buddhasummer]

What you have right now is a balanced adjustable 2nd stage with a metal air barrel.
It is no better or worse than any other balanced adjustable 2nd stage with a metal air barrel.
What will make another one better for you will be in the small details.
For example my choice would be Apeks, HOG or Scubapro.....not because they breath any better than the others but because these don't have removable exhaust T's or soft purge covers. My choice is based on the fact my regs get lent to others and get stored in boat lockers and frequently don't get the care they deserve. Exhaust T's that can be removed often get lost and soft purge covers get deformed and crumbly when not stored in air conditioned comfort.

I know you know. But just for clarity.

ATX and older are not removable, well they are but you need a screw driver or the like. The XTX series have user changeable, wide and narrow, exhaust Ts and will literally come off with the press of a button.

 

[divad]

I don't mix brands. I standardize my equipment and use top of the line for primary and backup that have the same specs.

Which "specs" ?

 

[victorzamora]

I agree with Burhan. I don't like mixing my gear brands. I had all Hollis regs, but sold them and replaced them with Hog regs for a few reaons:

1) They're just as good, if not better. (little things, breathing is the same).
2) You can take the reg tech class to service your own gear
3) Service interval is every two years, not annually
4) You can buy parts kits as spares
5) They're cheaper. I bought enough regs for my SM mains and a deco bottle and still hade money left over compared to the price of the Hollis DC1/212 combo.

I want the same parts kits for all of my regs, and I want at least 4 sets of regs, so Hog is absolutely the best way to go for me. I'm a certified Hollis reg tech (or I was....I can't remember when my cert expires) and the Hog regs are very similar on the inside. This makes me much more comfortable when I need to take a reg apart. Hogs breathe great, are fully adjustable, and have good customer service backing them. Those were all considerations I made when picking my regs. I've got 3x(D3+Zenith) combos right now and will end up with a fourth soon (stage or 2nd deco reg).

As for the Hollis 500SE, most Tech agencies are VERY against upstream regs. In the case of HP air being delivered to the second stage (most common failure symptom), most regs simply free flow. This can still provide air. Upstream regs seal shut and provide no air. That's NOT what I want my regs to do.

---------- Post added December 11th, 2013 at 09:59 AM ----------

What "specs."

Mostly the IP. MFGs that design second stages do so assuming certain first stage IPs. If you're diving a second stage designed for a low IP (110psi-120psi) with a first stage designed for high IP (190psi) you wear the reg out. If the opposite, you can make the second stage nearly impossible to breathe. You want the first stage IP to fall in the MFG recommendation for the first AND second stages.

 

[divad]

Mostly the IP.

Right, so Zeagle and Hog are 100% compatable.