Whatever you do, get a backup "wired" SPG.
Whats the cheapest Hoseless Computer?
- Thread starter SBP Studios
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Damselfish
Contributor
if you're concerned with saving money, why not just skip the wireless air integration for now? Buy a regular wrist computer for like $300-400 and use it as a backup later if you still really want AI. (From the questions you're asking, I'm guessing you haven't researched it too much yet.)
>>>> Don't quote me on prices -- they are approximate.
Suunto D9 is a great hoseless computer. Has an integrated digital compass which very well. I was pleasantly surprised. This is my main computer, I dive it all the time. It is pricey.
Suunto also makes the Vytek which is a hoseless computer which is around $1000-1100. The Vytek is a hoseless cousin of the Cobra. This is a computer I dived with quite a bit a few years ago. One of my favorites. The nice thing is the Vytek is upgraded and now includes Deep Stop Technology (like the D9). For a new diver, this doesn't mean a whole lot, but you won't be a new diver forever.
Suunto also makes a Cobra which is NOT hoseless. But has great features. One of the things I like about the Cobra is all your pertinent information is on one screen. If you get the Cobra, purchase the attached compass as well. The Cobra runs about $500
Suunto also makes the D6 which is a non-air integrated cousin of the D9. Same functionality, no air/psi readings. Runs about $600 less. You would need an SPG with that.
Suunto also makes non-air integrated (need an SPG) computers like the Mosquito and Stinger, etc. They run from $250 to $500.
Oceanic has a couple of nice hoseless computers including the Atom and the VT3 (upgraded vtpro). A lot of deep divers prefer the Oceanic decompression algorythm over the Suunto RGBM decompression algorythm. (Again, doesn't mean much to a new diver, but I always say, buy equipment once -- buy it right.) I own the VT3, nice computer. The Atom (for me) is too small to read. Must be getting old. Both computers have gas switching capabilities which is nice as well. Depending where you buy the computers, they will run from $800 (for the VT3) to $1300 (for the Atom).
I have noticed some folks recommend the online stores for purchasing equipment. I have little problem with that (as long as they are authorized dealers). If you purchase from unauthorized dealers, you may void the warranty. However, one of the advantages about buying your computer at a Local Dive Shop (LDS) is the personalized service. I can't speak for every shop, but if you buy a computer from our store, we will (1) show you how they work, (2) go through all the features and functions with you one on one, (3) even let you throw on your equipment and jump in the pool and try them out. When you have an issue (that includes an issue with you) you can drive over and ask questions. You may save a few bucks through an online store, but when your computer goes bust two days before a trip, you have no options. When you purchase it through an LDS, you can go down and speak with someone face to face -- that day. Great service is the ONLY thing that keeps Scuba shops in business.
I am sure this posting will spark some debate about online vs. bricks and mortar stores and I mean no disrespect. Just my personal experience.
There are many other brands of computers out there. Since this is a major purchase, I would visit several scuba shops (each one carries a proprietary line) and buy the one that best suits your diving -- a year or two from now. Make a list of what impresses you and compare apples to apples. The good news is while doing your due diligence, you will learn a lot about the shops in town. It's worth the trip.
jcf
Suunto D9 is a great hoseless computer. Has an integrated digital compass which very well. I was pleasantly surprised. This is my main computer, I dive it all the time. It is pricey.
Suunto also makes the Vytek which is a hoseless computer which is around $1000-1100. The Vytek is a hoseless cousin of the Cobra. This is a computer I dived with quite a bit a few years ago. One of my favorites. The nice thing is the Vytek is upgraded and now includes Deep Stop Technology (like the D9). For a new diver, this doesn't mean a whole lot, but you won't be a new diver forever.
Suunto also makes a Cobra which is NOT hoseless. But has great features. One of the things I like about the Cobra is all your pertinent information is on one screen. If you get the Cobra, purchase the attached compass as well. The Cobra runs about $500
Suunto also makes the D6 which is a non-air integrated cousin of the D9. Same functionality, no air/psi readings. Runs about $600 less. You would need an SPG with that.
Suunto also makes non-air integrated (need an SPG) computers like the Mosquito and Stinger, etc. They run from $250 to $500.
Oceanic has a couple of nice hoseless computers including the Atom and the VT3 (upgraded vtpro). A lot of deep divers prefer the Oceanic decompression algorythm over the Suunto RGBM decompression algorythm. (Again, doesn't mean much to a new diver, but I always say, buy equipment once -- buy it right.) I own the VT3, nice computer. The Atom (for me) is too small to read. Must be getting old. Both computers have gas switching capabilities which is nice as well. Depending where you buy the computers, they will run from $800 (for the VT3) to $1300 (for the Atom).
I have noticed some folks recommend the online stores for purchasing equipment. I have little problem with that (as long as they are authorized dealers). If you purchase from unauthorized dealers, you may void the warranty. However, one of the advantages about buying your computer at a Local Dive Shop (LDS) is the personalized service. I can't speak for every shop, but if you buy a computer from our store, we will (1) show you how they work, (2) go through all the features and functions with you one on one, (3) even let you throw on your equipment and jump in the pool and try them out. When you have an issue (that includes an issue with you) you can drive over and ask questions. You may save a few bucks through an online store, but when your computer goes bust two days before a trip, you have no options. When you purchase it through an LDS, you can go down and speak with someone face to face -- that day. Great service is the ONLY thing that keeps Scuba shops in business.
I am sure this posting will spark some debate about online vs. bricks and mortar stores and I mean no disrespect. Just my personal experience.
There are many other brands of computers out there. Since this is a major purchase, I would visit several scuba shops (each one carries a proprietary line) and buy the one that best suits your diving -- a year or two from now. Make a list of what impresses you and compare apples to apples. The good news is while doing your due diligence, you will learn a lot about the shops in town. It's worth the trip.
jcf
OP
SBP Studios
Contributor
Thanks much guys.
Im new but my mentality is that I hate having to RE_BUY equipment, I like to buy it right the first time indeed.
I am looking into the Atom with transmitter for $699, that seems like a steal as it seems to do all that my instructos Suunto D9 does, except maybe compass? Which I have no problem having a regular compass, im not sure I need a digital one.
JCF- as for supporting local Dive Shops, its tough for us because we are in East Gilbert, the nearest shop to us is like 45miles and thats Scuba Specialties. There is another play Paradise Scuba but from our experience at the Lake yesterday with one of its instructors we would never go there now.
Im new but my mentality is that I hate having to RE_BUY equipment, I like to buy it right the first time indeed.
I am looking into the Atom with transmitter for $699, that seems like a steal as it seems to do all that my instructos Suunto D9 does, except maybe compass? Which I have no problem having a regular compass, im not sure I need a digital one.
JCF- as for supporting local Dive Shops, its tough for us because we are in East Gilbert, the nearest shop to us is like 45miles and thats Scuba Specialties. There is another play Paradise Scuba but from our experience at the Lake yesterday with one of its instructors we would never go there now.
OP
SBP Studios
Contributor
jcf- by the way, im interested in your San Carlos trip for me and my wife, how is the Diving and Vis down there?
scubadobadoo
Contributor
Cheap and reliable? Atmos Elite and the VT Pro. Many shops still have them.
ScubaDivaDivemaster
Contributor
I dive the Atmos Elite and LOVE it, no problems at all, great computer with great features. I got mine at www.crazyscuba.com. Not sure the price...wait...
http://www.crazyscuba.com/pd_aeris_atmos_elite.cfm
here's the link.
If you don't want to go air integrated they have a GREAT price on the Atmos 2 wrist for $279, I'm thinking about getting one as a backup if I get rid of my Cochran as my backup. I've used the Atmos 2 from rental and it was very easy to use, had all the features I needed, but if you want Air integrated, the Elite is fantastic! I think I've had it for 2 years now and LOVE it!
i've used the Vyper, Cobra, Cochran Commander, Elite, Atmos ai, Atmos 2, analog gauges, a Scubapro 'puter, Matrix, and I can't remember what else. So far the Elite is my fav.
Good luck and happy computer hunting!
C U underwater
,
scubadivadivemaster
http://www.crazyscuba.com/pd_aeris_atmos_elite.cfm
here's the link.
If you don't want to go air integrated they have a GREAT price on the Atmos 2 wrist for $279, I'm thinking about getting one as a backup if I get rid of my Cochran as my backup. I've used the Atmos 2 from rental and it was very easy to use, had all the features I needed, but if you want Air integrated, the Elite is fantastic! I think I've had it for 2 years now and LOVE it!
i've used the Vyper, Cobra, Cochran Commander, Elite, Atmos ai, Atmos 2, analog gauges, a Scubapro 'puter, Matrix, and I can't remember what else. So far the Elite is my fav.
Good luck and happy computer hunting!
C U underwater
,scubadivadivemaster
OP
SBP Studios
Contributor
Thanks guys
divnamite
Guest
Whatever you decide, give scubatoys boys a call. they'll take care of you, and you get a good discount for being a scubaboard member. One thing about Atom I don't like is the display is not as big as Atmos or VT Pro.
Diving, in San Carlos, is generally very very good. 30-70 foot visibility. Lots of sea life (fun to play with the sea lions) and an overall good time. Our shop goes to San Carlos twice a month during the summer season. However, trips sell out early. If you are planning a trip, I would book it soon. Water temp is in low to mid 80s. If you have any other questions, let me know or call the shop.scrapdizzy:
Best,
jcf
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