ScubaPro MK20/S550 vs Zeagle ZX/50D???

[NS Diver]

We are just about ready to buy our first regulator setup and have narrowed it down to these 2 regulators...

ScubaPro MK20/S550
Zeagle ZX/50D

Since we are new to diving we will stick to warm bluewater diving about 4 times a year with some local dives in freshwater too. No plans for anything but recreational diving. Maybe get in underwater photography later on?

Lots of questions so answer what you can and thanks for your help!

1. We noticed that the purge clearing on the Zeagle was much easier to push in on the second stage as compared to the Scubapro.
How often do we need to purge our second stages on a normal dive and is this something we should take into consideration?

2. The Zeagle has a Inhalation Resistance Control on the second stage and the Scubapro does not.
Is this a feature we would really need? Why would we want inhalation resistance on recreational diving?

3. The Zeagle is enviromentally sealed and the Scubapro is not.
Is this something we need?

4. I think Scubapro has been around longer and has more dealers than Zeagle.
If we are travelling in Hawaii/Carribean/FL would it be easier to find a Scubapro dealer if something went wrong while on a trip or are most regulators pretty bullet proof with no need to be concerned about having an authorized dealer around?

5. Anything else to consider between these 2 regulators?


ScubaPro MK20/S550 $480 (8% discount from list)
Zeagle ZX/50D $440 (18% discount from list)

Is the Scubapro worth the extra $40? I see Scubapro all over these boards but not much on the Zeagle. Is that because the Zeagle is more for tech diving?

Can I get more than an 8% discount on ScubaPro?

Thanks,

NS Diver

 

[luvdiving]

I have a Scubapro MK18ULD/S550 listed in the Scuba Classifieds you should check out.

 

[GP]

NS Diver, if I had to make a choice I would definately get the Zeagle. It's got more features and maybe you won't need them all so I can't think of any reason not to get the Zeagle over the ScubaPro if it costs $40.00 less. Not sure if you are aware but Apeks used to make Zeagle regs and the ZX/50D is Zeagle's own supposedly improved version of the proven winning Apeks-Zeagle Tech/50D reg. Just my opinion but to me it's a no brainer.

 

[martinjc]

Hi NS! I would also support getting the Zeagle over the Scubapro, but before you make the Zeagle purchase - I would check out Apeks Reg prices on-line. At Diveinn.com they have the TX50 for $235 US.

 

[Lost Yooper]

I agree. I would suggest the Apeks TX50 or TX100 which are nearly the same as the Zeagle. I wouldn't spend that much for a reg though ($400+).

Mike

 

[NS Diver]

Hello Everyone,

Thanks for all your opinions and help! We have decided to go with the Zeagle setup. We tried them out this weekend and all went well.

Now it's time to start planning a bluewater dive this spring!

Thanks again for your help!

NS Diver

 

[WetDane]

Hi NS Diver,

I know this is after the fact -
but I just wanted to give you my two thoughts on this -

First - I think it is a toss up - not because I am convinced that these are equal regulators - I dive older scuba pro mk20/G250 but that is a different story.

The reason I think it is a toss up is the amount of diving you are going to do - it sounds like a couple of trips a year = you will not know the difference...

Actually if I could have told you anything - it would be to get the model down from what you are getting as you are buying higher performance equipment than you need (this naturally is great for the dive shop - but you're wasting you money if you ask me).

As far as all the technical details - Purge - don't ever use it - but you are right - the new SP do not feel very positive.
inhalation resistance - Ihave it - it is set to max flow - has been since the day I got the regs...
Sealing - it's a matter of opinion -
Dealers - I dunno - ther may be a couple more Scuba Pro dealers in some corner of the world - but I think they are both pretty well represented - anyone?

Other than that - as I said - drop down a level in performance and price and save your self some money - it will come in handy when you go on that vacation...

Big T

 

[TexasMike]

TekDiver knows a whole bunch about these regs and is a good person to answer your questions.....let me get get his attention and get him over here....

(Heads off to Tek's well apointed scuba garage. "Yo, Marc! You in here!?!??)

 

[wateronbrain]

NS,


I'm going to vote the other way. I use both the Scubapro and the apeks regs. TO ME the scubapro is the choice for bluewater diving. I dive both a MK20/G250hp and MK20/D400. my preference id the D400 setup. it's lower profile and is the simplest (only one adjustment - "DIVE or SURFACE" It flows as good or better than anything I've tried out there. The D400 setup should be about $40 less than the S550. Plus I be willing to bet there are more SP dealer/reapir facilities should you need them. Plus I lifetime warranty thats for the most part bulletproof.
I think you'll be happier that way.

 

[Tavi]

To all,
Apeks Regs also offer parts for life, as long as the reg is registered for warranty (with Seaquest/Aqualung) and serviced annually.

NS Diver,
8% discount on Scuba Pro?? Not in my neighborhood!! You'll pay at least MSRP

Tavi