I'm just curious as to what the advantages/disadvantages of double hose configurations.
I've never used one but I am aware that they exist and some like them.
Just a curiosity for some light discussion while on partial lockdown.
I have a DA Aquamaster that I have rebuilt with a new VDH Cyclone first stage, a banjo fitting for an HP hose and a LP adapter for the hookah port that connects to my BCD hose. I dive solo and use a pony instead of an octo. I use it with a standard back plate and wing.
I haven't noticed a difference in breathing effort while diving. That said, I don't spend my whole dive paying attention to my breathing effort. I mostly pay attention to sea life, shooting video, and monitoring my depth, time and air pressure. Never during a dive did it occur to me that it was getting really hard to breath.
Advantages
-With the exhaust bubbles behind me, it's quiet and I can hear the sounds of underwater life.
-All the moving parts are protected from water so freezing in cold water should never occur unless your air has moisture in it (which it shouldn't).
-It's easy for me do do my own servicing and parts are available and easy for me to get. (I like doing my own service on all my equipment)
-I like that I am using the same type of regulator that a lot of the first recreational scuba divers were using.
-It's a conversation starter when other divers see it (if you like showing off your stuff and talking to people).
Disadvantages
-You have to learn a few new skills and techniques to use it
-If not positioned correctly, you may notice more breathing effort
-You are probably not going to find a local service tech. You will either need to learn to service it yourself (not recommended unless you are really interested in doing that) or mail it to someone for service.
-If not serviced properly, you will notice increased breathing effort. I guess this also applies to all regulators, but if you are mailing it back for service it's more of a disadvantage.
-It's a conversation starter when other divers see it (if you don't want other people bothering you).