Z2 vs Z2x : Differences?

[tnole23]

i was all set on getting the atomic z2 reg when i saw they recently released the z2x reg. but for the life of me, i can't seem to find an explanation of the differences, outside of the swivel hose. if that's all it is, i'll just add it later and get the z2 for now. but it's not that much more to invest now if there's something more substantial to invest in. thanks.

 

[fnfalman]

That's pretty much it. You get the optional swivel hose and can also swivel turret for first stage as well.

 

[tnole23]

is the swivel turret a big deal for the atomic 1st stage? or is the hose routing ok without swiveling? i know the scubapro mk17 lacked with that regard and the swivel of the mk25 was a huge plus. i don't need to swivel really, just as long as the routing is good to begin with.

 

[fnfalman]

The swivel turret is a nice touch but not necessary. I think that the ports are pretty well laid out for the Atomic regs.

 

[tfsails]

KISS!

Keep It Simple, Stupid. The simpler the better. Fewer failure points. A Z2 is probably cheaper than a Z2x, too. AND--it 's a damn good regulator!

 

[tnole23]

KISS!

Keep It Simple, Stupid. The simpler the better. Fewer failure points. A Z2 is probably cheaper than a Z2x, too. AND--it 's a damn good regulator!

true. i can get the normal z2 online for $360. but my lds has a combo that includes the z2x(but with fixed yoke), an octo, and analog console, for $540, which includes the free reg bag. with all that, and the swivel on the 2nd stage(which sounds nice), it sounds like a better buy. i buy regs about once a decade, so i'm just trying to get what fits me best. thanks for the replies.

 

[fireflock]

New reg models are the ones selected for review in the glossy mags. As a result, the same basic reg gets reintroduced over and over again with slight changes. All reg manufacturers play the same game.

 

[hudson]

It's an ok deal, not necessarily a better buy. It depends on what the octo is. The swivel on the second is generally unnecessary except when you have a second bottle (pony or stage) and you have a specific hose configuration you want to use - otherwise it's a very minor convenience which adds another point where you could have a leak.

Also think carefully about the analog console, there are alternatives: you could buy a small SPG and have depth/compass on your wrists, which eliminates the bulk of the analog console and the streamlining issues (or you could get an air-integrated analog console computer, and eliminate the computer from your wrist etc - just make sure you consider these options and not just end up with something sub-optimal for you just because it's bundled)

 

[Doubler]

Get the Z2 with a Miflex hose and you will be much happier. I had the swivel on mine and it works great without pressure applied, kind of stiff when pressured up. Swapped it out for a shorter Miflex and it works great. If you are the long hose on primary type the Miflex is great. Routes nice, it is light and no jaw fatigue. I think you save a few bucks this way also. The Atomic Regulators are sweet either way you decide.

 

[tnole23]

good points. i'm planning on getting a gekko, but it seems like it's a good idea to have the analogs also. plus i'd need pressure indication.

is it maybe better to get just a pressure gauge, plus the gekko, and just rely on that.

i do like the miflex hose idea, that stuff looks pretty nice.