Some thoughts for assembling my first regulator set

[Aura]

I'm not aware of a computer that will let user error during the dive make it not let you see depth.

Skip the console. They are a hassle and not convenient

I've not used a console depth gauge for 20 years.

I guess I've just been too used to always having one with the rental gear I've used.

Get the Apeks.

Can't go wrong with the Apeks I have been diving them for years with no issues my Scuba Pro and Aqua Lung regs sit on the self now

Is there a specific reason you'd pick Apeks over, for example, Scubapro?

Thank you all very much for your input

 

[Marie13]

The shops I’ve frequented were Aqualung/Apeks. Plus I knew a lot of people with the Apeks.

 

[Resqdivemedic]

Been diving Apeks for at least 20 years. Love it. It's been under the ice a couple of times and never had an issue. Ended up getting my son an Apeks setup as well.

 

[Angelo Farina]

If you are worried about availability of spare parts, then only Scubapro did proof to make them available for decades. In my family we have a number of SP MK5+109, and all parts are still readily available, with upgraded quality and performance, 50 years after these regs were built.
Going to your specific case I suggest a sealed diaphragm first stage: MK17EVO.
And two identical high performance second stages (G260), one with a longer hose (the one you plan to donate to your buddy).
In case you need to use your second air source you and your buddy are already in trouble: you do not want to rely on a sub-par qualty reg on such situations...
I did always think that an octopus (a cheap, low quality, bad performances yellow second stage) is a very bad idea, made popular just by the need of cost reduction for shops providing rental equipment.
I really do not understand how people purchasing regs for their own usage can accept such a compromise on their safety...
Furthermore, when you will be ready for employing a more serious tank system (in order, a 15 liters steel with two posts, a compact manifolded back-mounted twin tank, or a pair of independent side-mounted tanks) you will just need to purchase a 2nd MK17EVO.

 

[gqllc007]

Look at the SP MK19/G260....I don't think you would go wrong with Mk17/19/G600/G260 or the Apeks...I use the ScubaPro in case I need support when traveling...SP seems to be everywhere

 

[NorCalDM]

I guess I've just been too used to always having one with the rental gear I've used.



Is there a specific reason you'd pick Apeks over, for example, Scubapro?

Thank you all very much for your input

Sorry for the delayed response I've been out of town. I use an Apeks XTX50 and feel it breathes as good or better than any SP reg I have used. The second reason is I can get better pricing on Apeks than SP including parts and servicing.

 

[BlueTrin]

You probably did it already, but you should check what your favourite local dealer services (for convenience).