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I am wanting a dive computer that can be used for technical dives. I am planning on starting advanced nitrox and deco procedures this summer. I was talking with my LDS today and he recommended a computer that does 3 gas blends. He also said that AI was important, but I was under the impression the AI was not really part of technical diving.
That is exactly what I thought might be the case. He seemed really knowledgeable on the phone, but I know he is in the business of selling gear. He was recommending some $1400 dollar AI computer. When I asked him about the VR3 he said not to get it. The VR3 seems like the holy grail of dive computers and in the basic config cost just about as much as the AI one. He also said that buying a used Halcyon backplate and wing was not a good idea. It seems to me that is a good way to save a few hundred dollars. Not too much can go wrong with a steel plate and a wing or so I thought.You must have wrote this as I was typing. I have a feeling that the LDS sells a 3-gas AI computer that they make a good margin on. Take a look at the serious technical computers (HS Explorer, VR3, X1, Shearwater, Cochran) and you will not find 1 with AI. Perhaps that will help you with your buying decision. While it is wise to seek the guidance of a good instructor when purchasing technical gear, I would be wary of anyone that tries to push you towards a certain brand or specific model of anything.