best scuba regulator under $500

The tec-oriented Xstream is currently one of only two regs approved by the U.S. Navy for cold-water use (the Mares Abyss Navy II was the first regulator approved for cold-water use under the new standards). In ANSTI testing, the MX100 performed very good at recreational depth and good to the depth limits of the test. A single control knob adjusts breathing effort, reducing weight and maintenance costs while preserving high performance air delivery. This simulates the potential demand at maximum recreational depth for a diver at an extremely heavy work rate, or loosely simulates two divers buddy breathing at a somewhat aggressive rate. The simulator monitors how much effort is required to breathe, measuring the work of breathing in joules per liter (j/l).

and many others. I have been taking photos of our Underwater world in Europe, Africa, South America, North America and Asia and I want to share those images and experiences with others. Scuba Diving may receive financial compensation for products purchased through this site. The regulator proved capable on the ANSTI machine, where it was rated very good at recreational depth and good to test limits. Otherwise the two versions appeared identical to us (in ANSTI machine testing they recorded the same intermediate static pressures down to /10 of a psi). Zeagles new flagship regulator leverages the companys heritage (F8 is a nod to the long-running Flathead regulator series), but with a different look and feel oriented as much toward comfort as performance. Divers evaluated each regulator in 13 specific performance areas, assigning scores from 5 (excellent) to 1 (poor), and recording their observations and comments about factors that determine the comfort and performance of the reg while they were actually being used. Intermediate pressure (psi/bar): 130-142/9.0-9.8. Find out how they stacked up in this year's regulator review. This provides increased resistance to freezing in cold water and less dry mouth. The next graph shows the same reg at 181 feet and a breathing rate of 30 breaths per minute. When paired with the Ellipse Balanced second stage, which includes an internal heat exchanger.

The Fusion 52X second stage incorporates a double DFC system that provides a consistent flow of air at any depth, even when breathing simultaneously from both the primary second stage and the octopus. The DX200s purge cover is a large, rounded triangle that allows good control a gentle push on one of the corners provides an easy clearing of the reg without an overly strong blast although some divers thought it required more movement than it should have. Explore the colors, wildlife and formations found in these unique environments. The second stage is based upon a design that was created more than 20 years ago. According to ScubaLab, they are the only regulators under $500.00 to be rated excellent throughout the range-of-breathing rates and depths. Best Regulators Under $500- Buying Guide (2021), Scuba diving is an addictive activity for. The first stage stands out from the range of Cressi balanced diaphragm regulators because the mechanism is arranged on an axis perpendicular to the axis of air entry, creating a T shape. Venturi-Initiated Vacuum Assist (VIVA) dive/pre-dive switch prevents free flows. Advanced Coating Tri-Material Valve Technology, Air balanced flow-through piston in a chrome-plated brass body, Patent-pending XTIS (Extended Thermal Insulating System) fully isolates the mechanical elements from the cold, increasing freezing resistance 30 percent over the previous MK25. In our ratings, a score of 1=3j/l or greater; 2 = 2.26-3.0 j/l; 3 = 1.51-2.25 j/l; 4 = 1.1-1.50 j/l; and 5=1j/l or less. Metal valve housing is built rugged and increases overall reliability. Nylon fiberglass design features SCUBAPROs largest second stage casing and diaphragm. The regular Core version and the Core Supreme. It's extremely important to keep ecosystems clean and healthy. Each breath by the machine moves 2.5 liters of air through the regulator, at breathing rates of 15, 25 and 30 breaths a minute. vibe. Meets new EN250-2014 standards for cold-water breathing performance. The second stage is compact and light, with smooth edges and soft parts. The second stage is light enough to be quite comfortable in the mouth. The top graph was taken at 132 feet at 15 breaths per minute, and recorded a work-of-breathing score of .73 joules per liter excellent performance, showing it was able to deliver air at that rate and depth with little effort. The first of the best regulators under $500 is the ScubaPro MK2 EVO/R195. Scientists Discover Incredibly Salty Underwater Lakes On the Floor of the Red Sea, A Year-Round Guide to the Best Diving in Florida, Say Hello to Hells Bells, the Worlds Largest Collection of Living Stalactites, The Best Destinations for Diving Caves, Caverns and Grottoes, WAKATOBI! 5 Wetness in head-down and odd positions This valve from Mares has been designed with longevity and advanced performance in mind. 13 Breathing- adjustment-knob function and effectiveness. This means instant airflow at any tank pressure and water temperature for a real carefree dive. Of course, their lack of breathing resistance adjustments means its especially important that their factory presets strike the right compromise between too much and too little at varying depths and breathing rates. Cressi has pulled out all the stops with this new Pro version of the XS Compact, providing a regulator which is ideal for traveling as well as suitable for diving in the coldest waters. This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Breathing adjustments allowed fine-tuning airflow with changes in depth or breathing demands. Weight: INT 232 (oz/g): 24.9oz/706g; /DIN 300 (oz/g): 16.0oz/454g. Super-flow hose features an oversized bore (larger inside hose diameter). Compact, reliable, and performance are the key words for describing the new Mares first stage. None we tested in this price category had breathing resistance adjustments, rotating first stages, swivel hose connections, titanium goodies, etc.

These precisely measured volumes of air 2.5 liters multiplied by the breathing rate are called Respiratory Minute Volumes (RMVs). The ScubaPro MK25 EVO/G260 was the Testers Choice by ScubaLabs for 2015. ANSTI breathing simulator results shown here are based on a score of 1 to 5, where 5 represents excellent performance with work-of-breathing measurements of 1 joule per liter or less at carefully regulated depths and breathing rates and volumes. Key Features include: Scubapro introduced the MK2 first stage back in 1963, and it has earned a reputation for smooth performance and the reliability of an anvil. Performance in ANSTI testing was impressive, with the Fusion 52X recording one of the lowest work-of-breathing scores for an excellent rating at recreational depth, and very good scores to our test limits. The first stage valve is environmentally isolated to preserve performance in harsh conditions.

The cool finish and metal diaphragm cover give it a tough, all-business look. The most important part of your scuba kit is the regulator. And first-stage features like rotating barrels or extra ports provided more hose-routing options. Our testing suggests they usually hit very close to the mark. I am personally using a ScubaPro MK25/600 and love this regulator. One of the most extreme environments on the planet, such oxygen-less pools may hold the keys to important medical breakthroughs. This represents the European conformance standard EN250, and is also the depth and breathing rate commonly used by manufacturers when determining a regulators performance. Feel free to send me an email if you have questions. just-right purge, but what they will love is that smooth, effortless The SC designation on this model of the new T10 stands for sealed chamber, signifying the environmentally sealed diaphragm first stage thats rated for cold water. In partnership with the marine exploration nonprofit OceanX, University of Miami scientists using ROVs discovered the massive brine pools more than a mile deep. The exhaust ports on the MX100 are quite short and curve in along the bottom, which helps make the second stage very compact and light but also seemed to allow a little extra bubble interference noted by some divers when vertical, although it wasnt noticeable when in a swimming position. It tied the high ergonomic scores in every category except head-down position, where divers rated it just good for ease of breathing and dry air. The VAD system delivers excellent and natural breathing at any depth. The purge cover is soft and large enough that its easy to reach and operate, but several divers found it a bit too strong, requiring a careful touch to avoid an unwanted blast of air. In ANSTI testing, the Xstream earned an excellent rating at recreational depth, recording one of the lowest work-of-breathing scores in our test. completely redesigned pneumatically balanced second stage dramatically reduces resistance, resulting in truly effortless breathing. Airflow at 2900psi/200bar (l/m/SCFM): 3000/106. Zapote Cenote, nicknamed Hells Bells, gives divers the chance to get up close and personal with a rare underwater phenomenon. The Zeagle F8 was also rated as the Best Buy among regulators over $500 by ScubaLabs. The CORE comes standard with Aqua Lungs unique, patented, auto-closure device (ACD) which seals water out. A divers denial of symptoms makes for a subpar response. 75 RMV @ 132 fsw: However, some divers said the adjustment needed tuning more frequently than they liked, with relatively small changes in depth or breathing rate requiring a touch of the knob. But while the second stage is ambidextrous, the purge is less so. Divers also thought the reg was noisier than average on intake, with a few finding the noise bothersome. All that metalwork gives it a somewhat beefy look, but test divers found that the second stage is actually quite lightweight and easy on the jaw. The RS790 has excellent performance at a normal breathing rate at recreational depth, and very good performance at depths up to 200 feet. Instructors, guides, dive operators, and researchers will all find a regulator that can meet their needs. Divers will like the swiveling first-stage barrel and five low-pressure ports, which give a wide choice of hose-routing options. I have always consulted my local dive shops for recommendations but I found that most shops are recommending what they have in store at that time which puts you into a narrow selection category. The S-90 is equipped with a built-in venturi adjustment lever allowing the diver to select a surface or minimum setting reducing possible free flow or a dive setting for maximum air flow during the dive. Divers also found the breathing-resistance adjustment effective, earning it a very good rating. It includes the R-700 which is a balanced diaphragm first stage designed for cold-water use, it features a dry ambient pressure chamber that prevents water contact with the diaphragm maximizing performance in temperate water conditions below 50F/10C. Where the sprocket-like heat sink connects to the second stage, fingers are protected from scrapes by the wide, soft hose cover. When you go to other dive. Otherwise the latest version has all the attributes that we liked last year: a large, soft, easy-touch purge cover, and a Venturi switch thats well marked and located on the top of the mouthpiece, where its easy to reach and operate. second stage gives you ergonomic one-handed access to both the inhalation effort knob and the dive/predive venturi adjustment lever, making perfect regulator tuning easy. The second stage is light enough to be quite comfortable in the mouth and has a purge cover that is soft and large enough that its easy to reach and operate. Scubapro has been the Leader in the Evolution of piston controlled first stages since the beginning. The graphs below show results of ANSTI testing on the same reg at different depths and breathing rates. 7-Ns Ocean Bungalow; diving magnificent, protected reefs; unlimited diving on house reef; gourmet meals; world-class service Divers rate the Cycklon highly for ease of breathing and dry breathing in all positions. The nicely finished MX100 has lustrous chrome on the first stage, a braided hose, and an abrasion-resistant finish on the purge cover. A PADI Worldwide Company. The barrel on the balanced diaphragm first stage doesnt swivel, but the four low-pressure ports are angled at 20 and 30 degrees for additional hose-routing options.

The new DX200 is easy to breath and provides a wide range of adjustment. Mares DFC system assures advanced performance at any depth. The side-exhaust Cyklon was launched during the Eisenhower administration, with nonstop updates ever since. Sign up for Scuba Divings weekly email and never miss another story. 37.5 RMV @ 132 fsw: A gentle push on one of the corners provides an easy clearing of the reg without an overly strong blast. The nicely finished MX100 has lustrous chrome on the first stage, a braided hose, and an abrasion-resistant finish on the purge cover. But test divers found nothing muscle-bound about its in-water performance, where it earned comments including super smooth and like butter! Divers liked the regs effective Venturi and breathing-adjustment controls, and its just-right purge, but what they loved was that smooth, effortless breathing. Regulator from SEAC excels in its rugged simplicity! The MK25 EVO teamed with Scubapros exceptional A700, in the new Black Tech Model offers Superior Ultra-High Airflow System for Maximum Performance in All-Temperatures and Diving-Conditions. The new valve guarantees longevity and advanced performance. The second stage features all-new balanced mechanics, including a demand lever with reduced friction, making breathing more fluid and linear. The side-exhaust Poseidon Cyklon Metal was launched during the Eisenhower administration in 1958, with nonstop updates ever since. Performance in ANSTI testing was impressive, with the Fusion 52X recording one of the lowest work-of-breathing ratings. Reversible hose attachment makes it easy to use on deco tanks. But it was in the water that the Cyklon really shined, proving to be one of the test divers favorites, tying the top ergonomic scores across the board and making it to multiple divers top-three lists. The Venture is good for blocking free-flows although having the markings MIN and MAX on the top of the second stage would make them more visible. The Compacts latest version maintains the trim profile of the second stage but pairs it with an environmentally sealed MC9- SC (for sealed chamber) first stage rated for cold-water use. It also made its way onto more divers top-three- favorites lists than any other reg in the test. My goal is to provide photographs that allow the viewer to get into the image to live and experience the moment vicariously through images which highlight the beauty and fragility of our environment. Two opposing high pressure ports allow the first stage to be positioned either up or down. Inspect it carefully before every use, clean it thoroughly after diving, and have it serviced at intervals the manufacturer recommends. The Prestige was the only reg in our test with no dive/predive switch, but like all modern regs, it uses the Venturi effect to reduce the effort needed to keep the diaphragm open when inhaling. Classic downstream valve comes with a VIVA switch to control free flows. Always be sure to give clean, fresh water time to wash away any salt that has accumulated before it can cause corrosion or other damage to sensitive parts such as valves and diaphragms. The Mares 15X is designed as a compact, reliable regulatory for the recreational diver. Reversible hose attachment allows you to easily adjust hose routing for tech diving configurations.

Images that inspire are my aspiration and my passion, combined with a love of scuba diving, nature and travel provide a wide variety of opportunities for me as a photographer. The regulator has high ergonomic scores in every category except head-down position, where divers rated it just good for ease of breathing and dry air. In ANSTI machine testing the RS790 demonstrated excellent performance at a normal breathing rate at recreational depth, and very good performance to the limits of our test depths and breathing rates (and also reached one of the greatest depths of any reg in this category without breaking test parameters, even at an extremely high breathing rate). Key features include: Another of the best regulators is the Tusa RS-790. Its a simple design and, our testing showed, an effective one. The flow is driven by the change of density in water with temperature. The MK2 EVO comes with the patent-pending Extended Thermal Insulating System (XTIS) that lets you enjoy an ultra-fast breathing response and maximum airflow with minimal effort regardless of how cold the water is. The exhaust ports on the MX100 are quite short and curve in along the bottom, which helps make the second stage very compact and light but also allow a little extra bubble interference when in a vertical position. As an affiliate, we earn a commission from a qualifying sale.

It backed that up in our ANSTI testing, chalking up excellent ratings at all depths and breathing rates, recording the lowest work-of-breathing scores at recreational depth, and delivering air within our test parameters, even at a torturous 75-liter-per-minute breathing rate down to 240 feet the deepest of any reg in our test. Exotic materials helped keep components light for comfort without sacrificing performance or durability. Divers It is a superior regulator thanks to its ultra stable intermediate pressure (IP) resulting in an extremely-punctual and constantly high delivery of air. Test divers rated it good for easy, dry breathing regardless of position. Use tab to navigate through the menu items. Two guests. In ANSTI testing, the DX200 was rated very good across the board at all test depths.

Intermediate pressure (psi/bar): 123-142/8.5-9.8. $617.95 Buy NowReturn to Scuba Diving Best Regulators Reviews List. We dont test on the simulator for a pass/fail grade, but to objectively gauge performance in carefully controlled conditions. The purge cover, which takes up the whole front of the reg, is soft and rubbery, the breathing adjustment knob is a full inch in diameter and ringed with soft rubber, and the Venturi lever is one of the easiest to reach and operate on any of the regulators featured here. While theres only about 18 of a turn in the Venturi lever, the settings proved just right, with surface free-flows curtailed and easy breathing at depth. The XTIS makes this possible by fully isolating the mechanical elements of the first stage from the cold, increasing freezing resistance by an average of 50 percent over the previous MK2 first stage. The large purge button is effortless to use while wearing gloves. $957.00 Buy NowReturn to Scuba Diving Best Regulators Reviews List*I try to update the prices regularly, but please check links in case prices have changed or for any special offers. Like the other regs in this price range, the Cores only user control is a Venturi lever, which divers found well positioned and easy to grip with or without gloves, and rated good for blocking free-flows (although some divers would have preferred the MIN and MAX markings on the rounded portion of the lever to be located on the top of the second stage, where they would be more visible). The ScubaPro MK25 EVO/G260 has a rugged, matte-black-and-metal second The natural convection channel (NCC) system and the design of the Abyss Second Stage with more metal on the front cover, allows this combination to achieve very high performance in cold water. Lightweight Jacketed 3/8 Threaded Low Pressure (LP) Hose, Secondary Diaphragm: Special Seal Chamber Completely Isolates Spring Chamber from Water, Lightweight PVD (Physical Vapor Deposition) Treated Brass Body, T Shape for Better Hose Routing and Compact Profile, High-Efficiency Nickel-Plated Bronze Conical Filter, Pneumatically Balanced Second Stage Design, Hose: 3/8 Thread High Flow Superflex 29.5 (75 cm), NCC System Increases Cold Water Performance, Material: Satin Chrome Plated Marine Brass, A.C.T. diving scuba gear gilets

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best scuba regulator under $500