Regulators

ScubaVox Favourite Regulators

No single regulator is a Swiss Army Knife. They all offer certain advantages and drawbacks depending on their type of design, features, performance and cost. ScubaVox does not label any regulator as best in category. Instead, we present our favourite products from selected manufacturers, with specs sourced from the manufacturers themselves, with attached ScubaVox ratings on the abovementioned characteristics.

Please read Very Basic Considerations When Buying a Regulator

Cressi T10-SC Chromo/Galaxy Adjustable

A very high performance regulator, with the same mechanics as their T10 Master but without the double stage feature. Ideal for seasoned or professional divers who need extremely high performing equipment that is both simple and resistant, without any of the usual accessories that may get damaged.

Certification EN250/2014 for cold water
The T10-seal chamber 1st-stage is environmentally sealed, protecting it against icing in cold water and against contamination from particulate matter in silty conditions. When paired with the Master second stage, which includes an internal heat exchanger, this regulator is an excellent choice for divers exploring the most extreme cold water environments.

Specs & Features

1st-stage

Hyperbalanced diaphragm (Watertight chamber on T10-SC)
2 7/16” HP ports UNF
4 3/8” LP ports UNF
Operating pressure:
INT version: 230 BAR | 3,336 PSI
DIN version: 300 BAR | 4,351 PSI
Calibration pressure: 10 bar | 146 PSI
Body coated with Cromo finishing
High-capacity conical filter in chemically nickel-plated spherical bronze
Removable nozzle in AISI 316 steel
Hyperbalancing system
Anti-pressure drop pneumatic spring
Stainless steel calibration spring with micropeening treatment
Low-friction technopolymer slider shaft
Body protection in polyurethane thermoplastic
Quantity of air supplied: 159 cu ft/min | 4,500 l/min
INT version weight: 25.4 oz / 720 g
DIN version weight: 21.2 oz / 602 g

2nd-stage

Pneumatically balanced
Adjustable Venturi
Adjustable inhalation effort
Patented elliptical diaphragm
Patented low-friction lever
Air delivery system without injector
Adjuster knob coated with dual OR
Internal heat exchanger
Cap opening with Cam-lock
Noise-absorbing technopolymer body
Removable technopolymer de ector
Removable mechanics
Weight without hose: 7.1 oz | 202 g

ScubaVox Rating

ScubaVox +

Very good for cold waters
Comfort
Good global support

ScubaVox -

Nothing worth mentioning

Apeks MTX-R

The MTX-R is based on the MTX, a regulator that was developed in accordance with the United States Navy Experimental Dive Unit extreme cold water test. Innovations in design mean that the MTX-R regulator performs in almost freezing water at a depth of over 60 metres, something that very few other regulators on the consumer market can boast.

With an innovative first stage design that helps to prevent ice build up around the diaphragm, the MTX-R is reliable, rugged and expedition ready.

Specs & Features

A first of its kind, over-moulded first-stage end cap and environmental diaphragm to prevent ice build-up that could cause a free flow in extreme circumstances.
Forged 1st stage body gives maximum thermal performance.
Ribbed diaphragm clamp on the 1st stage ensures improved heat exchange in cold water conditions.
Angled HP ports allow for optimal hose routing and transmitter fitting.
Parallel turret ports allow for improved hose orientation.
Superb protection from impact damage on both the 1st and 2nd stage.
Simple to use 2nd stage with no dive adjustment controls and a reduced chance of free flow.
Double swivel hose for greater freedom of movement and comfort.
Patented heat exchanger surrounds the valve mechanism, dissipating the cold caused by gas expansion while drawing in the warmth of the ambient water.
Developed in accordance with the United States Navy Experimental Dive Unit extreme cold water test.
Tested for Octopus use to 60 metres in cold water.

Connections Yoke and DIN available

Type of first stage Over-balanced diaphragm design, environmentally sealed

Body Type One piece forged body

Number of HP ports 2 (7/16" UNF)

Number of MP ports 5 (3/8" UNF)

Environmental Dry Kit Standard

First stage exterior Satin chrome

Orientation Convertible LH or RH

Coldwater Use Yes - extreme

Type of second stage Pneumatically balanced

Heat Exchanger Yes

Hose type Braided Flexi-hose

Nitrox compatible Yes to 40% O2 when new, out of the box / Can be O2 cleaned to 100%.

ScubaVox Rating

ScubaVox +

Durability
Over-moulded first-stage endcap and sealed diaphragm
Cracking resistance control
Comfort

ScubaVox -

Price

Hollis 200LX DCX

The 200LX + DCX Regulator is Hollis' flagship regulator; designed for extreme environments. Every feature and detail of this new product provides you with the confidence of 40 years of manufacturing life support systems. The 200LX can be converted from a right-handed to left-handed hose configuration, in a manner of minutes without the use of specialty tools or calibration. The valve and every other metal component of the 200LX is “PVD” Industrial Plated, added to outperform and outlast any other regulator finish.

All LX regulators come standard with Lifetime Warranty, 2 Year Service Interval and Free Parts for Life

Specs & Features

Pneumatically balanced PVD plated brass valve results in smooth, easy breathing
Reversible demand valve, can be converted from right-handed hose configuration to left-handed hose configuration
Diver adjustable inhalation knob, allows diver to customize inhalation effort
Adjustable Dive/Pre-Dive switch: Large Venturi lever has a soft rubber grip, which makes it easy to locate and use
Ergonomic exhaust channels bubbles away from field of view and reduces exhaust effort

Improved orthodontic mouthpiece with dual color tabs
PVD plated stainless steel metal ring, adjustable knob and Dive/Pre-Dive end cap
MiFlex® braided hose
Din or Yoke options available
Paired with the new DCX 1st stage
Lifetime Warranty
Free Parts for Life
2-Year Service Interval with Inspection

ScubaVox Rating

ScubaVox +

Lightweight polycarbonate design
Lightweight flexible braided hose
Sidemount compatible
Well built and very durable
Five-port swivel turret
Suitable for cold water

ScubaVox -

Global availability of spare parts could be an issue

Zeagle F8

One of the best performing diaphragm regulators on the market today.

The F8 1st stage has a dry-sealed spring chamber (to stop freezing at water temperatures below 40 degrees F). All delicate parts of the 1st stage including the main spring are sealed behind the clear hydrostatic diaphragm away from the effects of salt or other contaminants in the water, making it environmentally sealed. It is very low in profile, barely extending above the tank valve, and places the low pressure hoses directly out to the sides, in a pattern preferred by many divers.

Specs & Features

1st-stage

Balanced diaphragm design and the environmentally sealed ambient chamber ensure top performance in any condition.
Redesigned environmental seal cap and yoke knob enhance ergonomics & design aesthetics.
Precision machined neoflon seat harder more reliable material, keeping you diving longer.

First Stage Materials:

Body: Brass
O-rings: Nitrile
Seat: Neoflon (PCTFE)
HP Valve: Stainless Steel

2nd-stage

New inhalation diaphragm provides superior tear strength and improved response time to breathing (super soft silicone molded over a low friction disk).
Improved exhaust valve ensures dryness and a lower exhalation effort.
Seat-saving orifice, compliments of Atomic Aquatics, retracts when not in use - extending the life of the breathing tube seat. (#5,803,073)
Seat comprised of soft silicone molded over a metal insert to deliver the firmness required for an airtight seal while maintaining the necessary elasticity to prevent leaking.
Redesigned front cover and inhalation effort control knob use co-molded components that provide the necessary grip, soft touch and ease of use. Available in several color kits
Zirconium-plated inlet tube and heat sink for superior corrosion resistance.
Redesigned heat sink dramatically increases surface area, aiding in the heat exchange necessary to avoid freeze-up.
Co-molded silicone mouthpiece for better fit and less jaw fatigue

ScubaVox Rating

ScubaVox +

Durability
Lightweight
Comfort

ScubaVox -

Potential flooding of second stage when in inverted position

Atomic Aquatic T3

The T3 is Atomic Aquatics' signature regulator. Atomic Aquatics forged a new Titanium standard for the T3 making it one the finest regulators a scuba diver can own, regardless of price. The T3 delivers excellent reliability and performance. Incredibly lightweight and corrosion-resistant materials make the T3 a perfect choice for travel in exotic remote locations, where finding service could be a major problem.

Specs & Features

1st-stage

Precision-machined from solid Titanium alloy billet.
Minimalist yoke design is optimized to use the least amount of material for the lightest weight possible.
Atomic exclusive balanced Jet Seat high-flow piston.
Freeze-protected and factory-sealed to prevent outside
contamination from silt and sand.
Nitrox ready – approved for non-dedicated EAN use with mixtures up to 40%.
Ports: 2 HP fixed / 5 LP on swivel cap.

2nd-stage

situations such as surf entries or octo use.
like-new factory tuning and prevents damage during storage.
PVD coating.
purge.
depth.
both comfortable and durable.
Pneumatically-balanced poppet, high-flow case and lever design for easy breathing at all depths and tank pressures.Patented Atomic AFC – Automatic Flow Control.
Soft overmolded Rapid Adjustment Knob for manual detuning in special
Patented Atomic Titanium Seat Saving Dynamic Orifice maintains crisp
Hose features patented all-Titanium Atomic Comfort Swivel with Black
Dual material second stage cover enables entire front to be used for
Elliptical exhaust valve dramatically reduces exhalation effort at
Dual silicone comfort fit mouthpiece with tear-resistant bite tabs –
PVD coated metal-accent front cover ring.

ScubaVox Rating

ScubaVox +

Lightweight and durable, makes an excellent travel regulator.
Spectacular Breathing Performance that's hard to beat.
Comfort swivel reduces jaw fatigue

ScubaVox -

Price

Mares Navy 22 Abyss II

Mares Abyss 22 Navy II scuba regulator is made for extreme conditions, and is the only regulator to pass the U.S. Navy's strict standards for extreme cold water diving. The Mares Abyss 22 Navy II Regulator is made to handle the most extreme conditions, and is approved for use by the US Navy for extreme cold water diving. Made with a special fluoropolymer coating on the second stage, this prevents dirt particles and ice crystals from adhering - the Abyss 22 Navy II is virtually freeze-proof. The CWD kit provides protection against icing up during extreme cold water dives.

Specs & Features

1st-stage

Hi-flow DFC port
Pre-oriented ports
CWD oil kit
US Navy approved
Balanced Diaphragm
First stage weight INT: 850g
First stage weight DIN: 685
High pressure ports: 2 HP 7/16” UNF
Low pressure ports: 1 LP 1/2” UNF port, 3 LP 3/8” UNF

2nd-stage

VAD system
Mesh grid
Fluoropolymer resin finish
Rubber hose
Ideal for extreme cold water
Second stage weight: 269g

ScubaVox Rating

ScubaVox +

Performs extraordinarily well in all conditions
Specifically well suited for cold waters
Durability

ScubaVox -

A bit heavy

Aqualung LEG3ND MBS

The Aqua Lung LEG3ND MBS is a top-of-the-line regulator that offers exceptional breathing performance at any depth or tank pressure. It features an over-balanced diaphragm which delivers greater intermediate pressure at depth than your standard balanced system. This design helps compensate for the increased density of the gas at depth by allowing a greater volume to pass through the system, allowing much better breathing performance. Aqua Lung’s ‘Master Breathing System’ (MBS) combines both the Venturi effect and inhalation adjustment into one easy to use knob. The Aqua Lung LEG3ND MBS second stage is equipped with the ‘Aqua Lung’s Auto-Closure Device’ (ACD) system that automatically seals the regulator inlet once it has been taken off the cylinder.

Specs & Features

1st-stage

Overbalanced diaphragm 1st stage
Auto-Closure Device (ACD) Yes
2 x HP ports
4 LP ports
1st Stage Flow Rate of 1500 l/min
1st Stage Weight in DIN 747 g
1st Stage Weight in Yoke 957 g
Permanent environmental dry kit
Chrome over marine brass in 1st stage exterior

2nd-stage

Pneumatically balanced 2nd stage
Venturi switch adjustable breathing resistance
Comfo-Bite mouthpiece
Heat Exchanger for freezing resistance
2nd Stage Weight 227 g
Hose length 730 mm
Overall work of breathing WOB scores avg. 0.70 joules/liter
Nitrox compatible 40% O2

ScubaVox Rating

ScubaVox +

Comfort
Ease of breathing
1st-stage auto closure device (ACD)
Exceptional cold water performance

ScubaVox -

Nothing worth mentioning

Scubapro EVO MK25 A700 Carbon

The Mk25 Evo A700 is Scubapro’s flagship regulator. It pairs the MK25 Evo first stage with the all-metal A700 second stage to make a system that delivers ultra-responsive, high-performance breathing, even in cold water conditions.

The A700 CARBON's main casing is full metal to take advantage of the extremely high heat exchange rate that makes it such a great choice for cold-water diving, and its front cover is handmade out of lightweight and durable carbon fibre.

Specs & Features

Air balanced piston 1st stage
2 high pressure ports
Two opposing high pressure ports allow the first stage to be positioned either up or down
5 low pressure ports
Environmentally sealed
Balanced 2nd stage
Adjustable inhalation
Adjustable venturi
Nitrox compatible
Cold water rated
Handmade carbon fiber front cover, metal casing and metal valve housing

Metal case construction enables the use of a larger diaphragm inside a compact casing, increasing breathing sensitivity
Patented ultra-freeze-resistant Extended Thermal Insulating System (XTIS)
Anti-freeze protection radically increases breathing reliability when diving in the most extreme water temperatures
Anti-freeze protection radically increases breathing reliability when diving in the most extreme water temperatures

ScubaVox Rating

ScubaVox +

Well designed and built
Airflow and ease of breathing
Excellent in cold waters

ScubaVox -

Nothing worth mentioning

Tusa RS-681

The RS-681 is TUSA's latest regulator that delivers superior performance and build quality in a compact lightweight design. The R-600 paired with the newly developed S-81 second stage further pushes the regulator engineering and performance envelope.

The Sequential Exhaust Assist (S.E.A.) is a revolutionary new second stage design featuring a dual exhaust system. The S.E.A. system consists of an enlarged primary and an auxiliary exhaust. The auxiliary exhaust, located on top of the S-81 elliptical case, works in conjunction with the primary to significantly decrease exhalation resistance.