Reversible/Left-Handed Second Stage for Sidemount

[AquanutAlex]

Hi all, I was thinking of purchasing the Deep6 Signature Sidemount set, but then I realized that the second stage is not reversible/capable of being placed in a Left-Handed configuration. I'm therefore wondering: For people who have experience diving sidemount both with and without a reversible second stage, how beneficial is having the reversible second stage?

If it is really beneficial, then I was thinking of perhaps going with a Deep6 Signature for one regulator and a reversible regulator like the Apeks XTX50 or Diverite XT1/XT2 for the other. Alternatively, could I use an Apeks XTX50 or Diverite XT2 second stage with a Deep6 Signature primary stage? Thanks in advance for your comments! Of note, I will be diving with a 7 ft long hose on my right tank and a short hose on the left tank.

 

[Mobulai]

Of note, I will be diving with a 7 ft long hose on my right tank and a short hose on the left tank.

In such a setup the reversibility provides no benefit
Only if you decide to use 2 “long”s it would be helpful, like 2x 5” hoses

You can mix and match 1st/2nd stages as you like, as long as they are in the same operating IP ranges (I believe everything except the Poseidon 2nds have overlapping ranges) — but even then you can tune to match
But would be wise to tune once you start mixing and matching

Honestly, go with the D6 setup and you’ll be happy as a clam; no backorder worries about part availability or worries about the continuity of the company

 

[grantmac]

You run two right hand seconds in any typical sidemount setup.

 

[gmerick]

Diving solo, I have two 24" 2nd stage hoses, with both 2nd stages on necklaces. Mirrored 2nd stages make this convenient (and workable). When not solo, I dive a long hose. No need for mirrored regs, but it does provide an indication of which tank I'm currently on.

 

[tursiops]

No need for mirrored regs, but it does provide an indication of which tank I'm currently on.

Yes, nice tactile benefit. I use a HOG reversible on the left for this reason, older DiveRite elsewhere.