Suunto Vyper Air or Vyper 2 ?

[Buttsack]

I'm just looking at getting my first dive computer and am looking at either the Vyper Air ($715) or the Vyper 2 ($400) for nearly half the price. Those prices are from leisure pro so if anyone knows of somewhere cheaper let me know.

From what I can see the only difference between them is that Vyper Air has wireless air integration and the 45 degree compass, I've read that was the biggest downfall in the Vyper 2. The wireless doesn't really bother me since I'm a new diver but it's still nice. Is that all that is different or am I missing something?

So basically is the Vyper Air really worth the extra money?

 

[vixtor]

That's all that is different between them (oh, and the color). If you don't care for the compass you can go for the Vyper 2. I went to the Vyper Air because in my case the price difference was not much, but I still use the SK-7 compass (way better). I don't care about air integration.

 

[dori fish]

i plan on getting a new computer with wireless air intergration, and i am open to suggestions. currently i have the mares puck 2 console and spg, and it is very had to streamline it, so this is why i want wireless. stay away from leisurepro they are NOT a AUTHORIZED RETAILER. aftver making the same mistake as a new diver looking for a bargain, stay away, you will have a hard time finding someone to service it, and if something fails the company can not compensate you nor the warranty is voided. believe me find an authorized retailer for these life support items, it can caust you alot in the end

 

[Buttsack]

Where would be a authorized retailers then? At the other prices I've seen compared to leisure pro they are nearly double so if it breaks I could just buy a new one.

So does anyone else have an input about the vyper air compared to the vyper 2?

 

[esguerra1]

Hey Buttsack,

I had a Vyper2 and I sold it to my cousin and used the money to put towards a Vyper Air. The Vyper Air has everything the Vyper2 has, plus 'that little bit more' which will prob. lead you to choose the Air if you've got the extra cash. I used the Vyper2 - and while it is an EXCELLENT computer, the electronic compass was horrible when it came to finding a useable 'level' platform. It was so sensitive, not even the +/- 5 deg. tilt that it advertises. You really need to hold it very level which can be a challenge underwater - u practically have to climb on top of the compass to get a level bearing. No joke. The Vyper Air has a +/- 45 deg. tilt which is a VAST improvement. As to whether or not you'll use the electronic compass is another story. I do have a liquid compass attached to my console which I honestly find easier to use - much like the trusty ol' backup mag compass I use in my 777 cockpit! Ha.

Aside from that, the colour is different and of course the ability to get wireless air info is an extra perk. The other tiny change in the Air allows you to adjust the time in minutes for the electronic compass to display. You also need to calibrate the tilt function for the compass (which is really simple if you read the instruction manual. The Vyper2 didn't have this function as the tilt on that thing essentially sucked!) My verdict: If you have money to blow, might as well get the Vyper Air. It offers more and improves on the faults (minor as they may be) of an already excellent computer in the Vyper2. You can't go wrong with either...but I upgraded to the Air.

Aloha,

 

[Buttsack]

So the vyper 2 is best bet for my money then. Should I be staying away from Leisure Pro to buy from? Are they helpful to people overseas?

 

[Scared Silly]

BS ... LiesurePro is gray market so there is no mfg. warranty. However, LP has their own warranty which matches the mfg. warranty. As such, if you have any problems you must send it to LP rather than the mfg.

The price difference is all in who honors the warranty. That said there are stories both good and bad about well the warranty is honor by both the mfg and LP.

 

[esguerra1]

G'day Buttsack -

What SS said is correct. I'm from the States but I live-work in Hong Kong and I'm actually in New York as we speak and visited the Leisure Pro store yesterday. Just got my Vyper Air from them and I queried them about the whole warranty/unauthorized dealer situation. As SS said above, LP matches the same warranty as Suunto - which is 2 years for their computers. I come to NY a lot so I'm not worried if my comp. has problems. As it seems you live in Oz, it may be a bit more troublesome for you if you don't travel much. But I wouldn't be so concerned. Their (LP's) customer service is good and they are very helpful to people overseas or local. They actually respond to your emails! I'll do business with with them as some of their prices are unbeatable. Good luck mate.

Cheers,

 

[Brishar]

Is the electronic compass important to you?

I have only seen the Cobra 3, but I ASSUME it's the same.

If so, I'm less than impressed with this feature.

For a company (Suunto) that manufactures a good dive computer line, and ALREADY makes the best underwater compass (SK-7) on the planet, I feel they came up a little short.

If underwater navigation is something you already do, or plan to learn, put a SK-7 in a DSS bungee boot, and you're golden.

Opinions may vary; FWIW I've purchased multiple times from LP and I've never had a problem. Wish you luck on your decision.