Scubapro vs. Oceanic vs. Atomic

[rostyvyg]

I am up to buying a regulator after renting for 2 years. I want something fairly inexpensive, dependable, and which could be serviced everywhere (including Europe and Carribean). I dive in and around NY and while traveling to warm destinations. So far after some research I narrowed down to:

- ScubaPro MK17/G250V $370 with R395 $140

- Oceanic GT3 CDX5 DVT Diaphragm Regulator (Environmental seal) $199.95 with Oceanic Slimline 2 Octopus $115

- Atomic Aquatics Z2 Sealed Regulator $364.95 with Atomic Safe Second Inflator (SS1) $274.95

It appears that all of the above are highly regarded, but I would love to hear your insight and first-hand experience with that equipment.

Thanks.

 

[piffle]

Ive been diving with the ScubaPro MK17 for 2 years now in water down to 44 degrees with zero issues. Im sure they are all good products though.

 

[zider]

Can't go wrong with the G250. I have used one for 10 years along with a MK20 1st stage. This combo has worked flawlessly in Caribbean waters to 35 degree quarrys.

 

[TravisD]

Which one is serviced by the local guy that you trust the most?

The Atomic's have a 2-year/300-dive recommended service interval. The others may have the "free parts" gimmick, but you may be having to pay for service every year to maintain that, and the warranty.

 

[RAWalker]

I'd go wil Oceanic you can get better pricing on their gear since the only enforce MAP while both Atomic and Scubapro both enforce MARP.
And Since Oceanic pricing is left to the dealer better deals are available so why not look at a Delta 4 FDX10 I've seen them in the same price range as the Scubapro and Atomic you quoted. IMHO the Delta outperforms any of the regs you've listed

MAP - Minimum Advertized Price
MARP - Minimum Authorized Retail Price.

 

[John_B]

IMHO the Delta outperforms any of the regs you've listed

Really? What do you base that on?

 

[tfsails]

I just rebuilt an Oceanic Delta 2. That SOB moves a LOT of air when you hit the purge button. It's a sweet breather, too.

 

[Hatul]

I just rebuilt an Oceanic Delta 2. That SOB moves a LOT of air when you hit the purge button. It's a sweet breather, too.

Personally I'll stay away from Oceanic for my next reg. I have two Delta 2s: one piston and one diaphragm and both have had problems with leakage from the first stage. It's no fun to start a dive and find bubbles from your first stage. Happened one time too many.

I use the piston Delta 2 and it breathes fine as long as I make sure it's checked exactly at yearly intervals, but I have overbreathed it a few time at depth with heavy exertion and or excitement so I'm not sure if it has a lot of reserve.

Adam

 

[dk2943]

I have no experience with the ScubaPro.

I do own an Atomic Z2. I have always liked the way it breathed at any depth and in any position. A while ago, I had the opportunity to try out an Oceanic Delta 4. After two dives, I wanted to go back to my Atomic

 

[fnfalman]

I also prefer my Atomic B2 over any other regulator. It breaths dry regardless of your body position, upside down, right side up, sideway, canted. And the ease of breathing is really telling when your tank runs low or when you go deep.