What's the difference between a reg and an alternate

[pjdc1]

Planning on making my reg and alternate purchase this summer, but I'm noticing that the regs cost a whole lot more than the Alternates do. (depending on the make & model)
Im lookin at the Apeks ATX50 Reg & ATX50 ALT.
If you use both to breathe underwater(regardless if one gets used more than the other) why cant you just buy two alternates and call it a day.
I know Im gonna get a lesson here, but thats ok.

 

[Warren_L]

The reg you are looking at, ATX50 includes a 1st stage (the part that connects to the tank valve and converts your tank pressure to an intermediate pressure) and a 2nd stage (the part that you breathe through with a hose that connects to the first stage). The alternate is usually just a second stage, hence the price difference. 2 Alternates will not work since you still need a first stage.

 

[Boogie711]

It's a really simple answer. Don't sweat it.

A 'regulator' will have a first stage - the part that attaches to your tank. It will also have a second stage - the part that goes in your mouth. It connects directly to the first stage.

An 'alternate' is only a second stage. It's also commonly called an Octo, Octopus, or backup regulator. You would still need to buy the first stage.

 

[fdog]

A picture says a thousand words, although those above were well said.

All the best, James

 

[dvoodoo83]

ya that pic about ..... shows it

 

[Fly N Dive]

plus alts generaly don't breath as well

 

[mtiffee]

plus alts generaly don't breath as well

Well isn't that because people get cheaper alts, and spend more on their primary? If you get an alt. version of a regulator, isn't it the same 2nd stage, except for a yellow face?

 

[diver_paula]

Well isn't that because people get cheaper alts, and spend more on their primary? If you get an alt. version of a regulator, isn't it the same 2nd stage, except for a yellow face?

I actually have the reg. I trust the most on my pony (Yes, I use a pony.) If my primary goes it's most likely because of the water temp. & if the water temp. is so bad that my primary goes I most definitely want to be able to rely on my backup. & on my buddy, too.

Paula

 

[DA Aquamaster]

Well isn't that because people get cheaper alts, and spend more on their primary? If you get an alt. version of a regulator, isn't it the same 2nd stage, except for a yellow face?

Scubapro sells octo versions of their R190 and R390 and the only mechanical difference is the yellow purge cover.

But Scubapro also recommends they be set with a higher cracking effort than a primary reg (around .5 inches of water)to reduce the potential for an unintentional freeflow so despite being mechanically identical, the octo will breathe harder as delivered from the factory.

When possible I like to discuss this with a customer buying an octo and will set the octo the way they want it. During annual service, I will have the same discussion with the customer - if I get to see them. If not, I'll set the octo up with the same cracking effort it had when it came in.

I personally don't see the benefit of a higher cracking effort on regs with adjustable cracking effort or an adjustable flow vane. And I really do not see the need for cracking efforts in excess of 2.0" of water that seem to be common on some other brands of octos.

If you are considering deep diving or technical diving, your alternate second stage should be of the same quality and have the same performance as your primary second stage.