ScubaPro Mk16 vs Mk 20

[MNScuba]

First off, thanks to everyone (especially the owners of this site) for the wonderful service this provides!

With that said, I'm just wondering if there's a real big difference between the Mk16 and Mk20 regulator? I bought the Mk16 as recommended by my local dive shop, but my Uncle (member of the Sheriff's search and rescue team in California and a ScubaPro dive shop owner) said I should have gotten the Mk20. Any thoughts on this?

From what I have gathered, ScubaPro makes one heck of a good product, so I'm not too concerned, just wondering if I should have forked the extra $$$ for the Mk20? It's paired up with the ScubaPro g250hp in case that matters.

Thanks!
Chris (Murdock)

 

[ifukuda]

I believe the following are the spec differences between the ScubaPro MK16 and MK20 first stages:

MK16 diaphram first stage.
MK20 piston first stage.
* Hard to say which is better. Preferences vary between divers.

MK16 200 bar max.
MK20 300 bar max.
* 200 bar max might be a problem if you ever decide you want to dive with HP steels tanks.

 

[Jonathan]

Also there are some good deals about at the moment on the Mk20 as they have now introduced the Mk25 - just a slight upgrade on the 20 from what I can see.

Jonathan

 

[DocVikingo]

Hi Murdock,

A number of reviews essentialy found them comparable in terms of bubble interference, ease of clearing, ease of of breathing, dryness & comfort.

If you intend on using a HP cylinder at some time, the MK20 has a higher pressure rating. If you plan on doing very cold/polluted water diving, the MK16 may give you extra protection.

Nice thing is, they're both excellent.

Best regards.

DocVikingo