I expect to buy a regulator in the reasonably near future, and am thinking about the resale market on a good, solid entry level model. If I go this route I am concerned about buying something that is difficult or impossible to service due to manufacturer no longer supporting. For example, I understand Dacor is no longer supported, and some Sherwood models may not have service kits available. Here is a list of regs that I'm trying to watch for deals on, and I would appreciate feedback if anyone sees issues with any of them:
US Divers Conshelf
Oceanic Alpha 7 or 8
Aqua Lung Calypso
Sherwood Magnum
Sherwood Brut
Mares MR12
I expect to dive only in warmer waters. Any help is appreciated!
Howdy Neighbor,
My recommendation for the average recreational diver, i.e. not freezing water, 150 feet or less, is a simple non balanced piston 1st stage such as the Scuba Pro MK 2 (or Aqualung Calypso, Mares R2, Sherwood Brut, Oceanic SP4 and a few others.) This simple design is usually inexpensive, nearly bullet proof, easy to get parts for and easy and inexpensive to service. It is also easy to DIY because it requires only a few o-rings and a seat. Yes, the unbalanced design will increase the breathing effort at low tank pressure, but I view this as a good thing especially for new or inexperienced divers. See this thread:
http://www.scubaboard.com/forums/regulators/87374-scuba-pro-r190-2.html
Additionally, if/when one wants to start more advanced diving where high concentrations of oxygen will be used this type regulator can be moved to that application.
For a second stage I like an adjustable and balanced unit. This provides the ability to have the regulator tuned to minimum inhalation resistance with the option of the diver increasing the resistance it if he/she finds the need to. Having said that, a straight forward classic downstream design with a simple to replace set of o-rings and button soft seat can be highly recommended as it is a tried and true design, parts are usually available and almost anyone can service them.
It is a good idea to have the same manufactures 1st and 2nd stage to make getting service less complicated.
For more demanding diving and high end/higher performance (higher price) regulators see the following link for DA's excellent advice.
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http://www.scubaboard.com/forums/regulators/181745-advice-regulators.html>
Now, if you have read through my entire boring post or have done the sensible thing and just skipped down to this part, the best advice would be to contact someone who rebuilds regulators like DA Aquamaster and see if he has a rebuilt ready to sell.
Good luck,
Couv
