Fundamental Nitrox is all the same, I teach both PADI and SSI and there is not a shred of difference except for the tables. I used to teach SSI Nitrox more until PADi finally got on board and dropped the diving requirement.
As far as going up the technical route, I was readily capable and prepared based on my basic Nitrox class for Advanced Nitrox, Deco, etc with TDI. I cannot speak about if IANTD would make one even more prepared. Given that I easily progressed with a basic Nitrox card, it seems like it would be overkill to me. For the technical diving, knowledge-wise, the material was easy to understand. It was the skills in the water that required the most attention and work. If one takes a non-diving Nitrox class, then it really doesn't matter does it? I don't see how any basic nitrox course could prepare you more than another unless that course is overkilling the basic nitrox course.
As far as going up the technical route, I was readily capable and prepared based on my basic Nitrox class for Advanced Nitrox, Deco, etc with TDI. I cannot speak about if IANTD would make one even more prepared. Given that I easily progressed with a basic Nitrox card, it seems like it would be overkill to me. For the technical diving, knowledge-wise, the material was easy to understand. It was the skills in the water that required the most attention and work. If one takes a non-diving Nitrox class, then it really doesn't matter does it? I don't see how any basic nitrox course could prepare you more than another unless that course is overkilling the basic nitrox course.
