Scubapro MK25/S600 Regulator

The Scubapro MK25/S600 has been rated to be one of the best diving regulators that are available in the market in the modern times. This product when teamed up with the first stage MK25 becomes a deadly combination to the technical diver no matter the sea depth and coldness. This regulator is considered to be the ideal match to the first stage MK 25 as it has the utility of being adjustable to suit the preferences of the diver and sea diving conditions. The main benefit of this regulator is that it offers the benefits of effortless breathing to the diver. The product also enjoys positive reviews in the nature of its design precision and lightweight features. The regulator has the utility of having enhanced performance under cold water and the material is also resistant to corrosion.

With the aid of the second stage regulator the diver has no aifficulties breathing. The regulator has the ability to reduce the stress and also enhance the protection and the safety of the diver. The diver has the advantages of breathing smoothly and needs to make low efforts to do so. The regulator provides amounts of air that can be controlled by the diver. The regulator also has a balanced flow performance that is both classic and designated for rendering stability and reliability to the diver. This gives simple and solid performance to the diver and never disappoints him/her.

The second stage needs to be combined with the MK25 first stage and the general advantages of the piston lies in the fewer maintenance costs and reliability. The mechanism that is deployed is very simple and effective. The first stage design enjoys the reputation of being reliable for the provision of high delivery of air with better control. The first stage delivers more air to the second stage and even when there are changes in the tank pressure. With the aid of the balanced piston the diver has the benefits of components that are sensitive and lightweight. The balanced piston also gives instant and fast breathing responses to the diver when under water. The piston ensures that the diver gets the instant delivery of air whenever required and this in turn gives rise to an extremely high flow of air no matter how deep the diver may be in. This feature of the regulator works pretty well for the diver even when there is low tank pressure. If the diver is tired he can derive the benefits of smooth breathing ability even when at ascent or deco stop. When the diver needs to go in for balanced piston in the first stage this regulator is the first choice for professionals and hard core divers. The balanced piston also has the capacity to work well for both cold and warm water environments too.

The first stage also has the advantages of the two pressure ports that are opposite to one another and they permit the individual positioning of the first stage that points both up and down. This feature is a boon for the diver as he/she can position the gauges to suit requirements both to the right and the left side in order to get better freedom of neck and head movements.

There are also multiple low pressure ports that render ultimate freedom when it comes to the arrangement of the low pressure hoses. There are also five high flow ports that function on a swiveling turret and they are able to provide about 360 degrees swivel of hoses. There are also high flow ports that also deliver about 15% of more air than the other traditional ports.

When it comes to the S600 stage there is better air balanced technology and the second stage also renders a balancing chamber have the second stage mechanism. This mechanism has the ability to offset slightly the force of the downstream air that tends to enter from the first stage. This feature of the regulator gives the diver lesser tensions in the spring and it also decreases the resistance to the inhalation to the minimum level. This results in giving smooth breathing mechanism to the diver in all conditions. The air valve of this regulator has balanced technology and it is predominant in the X and S second stages. Combined with the first stages they tend to give the best of performances. The regulator is one of the most dependable ones around and trusted by divers across the world.

The regulator is one that has carbon fiber along with technopolymer housing rendering the diver light weight water resistance for longer life and durability. The regulator is also endowed with an inhalation effort that is adjustable and this exclusive feature helps the diver to adjust to the breathing efforts with the aid of a knob that is big enough to control. This can be fine tuned to any type of diving conditions that the diver is in.

Scubapro MK25/S600 regulator also has the advantages of deploying a mouthpiece that is comfortable enough to give comfort to the diver to reduce fatigue of the jaw. It also does not cause gum irritation as it has been made and checked by dentists worldwide. The mouthpiece is one that lasts longer than other mouthpieces that are available as there is only a lesser effort that is involved to hold it in place comfortably. The mouthpiece is one that is adjustable and it also gives the diver lesser breathing efforts and more smooth breathing facility. Every single breath that is taken by the diver is effortless and comfortable to the diver. The air delivery is without flaws and with this regulator the diver gets comfort and durability without tensions of depth and water temperature. It is highly recommended by professional scuba divers and the cost of the regulator is very reasonable too. The diver tends to get exhausted less and it is considered to be one of the best regulators in the world that is banked by millions of scuba divers across the globe! The price for equipment is 514.95$ ( at the time of review ) at leisurepro.com

In addition I would like to share a video review from simplyscuba.com

This Dive regulator have excellent reviews from customers , here are some of them from leisurepro.com

By Dive Master Don:  Effortless Breathing
I use this regulator in a variety of diving environments, from deep saltwater, to cold freshwater. It breaths effortlessly at all depths and tank pressures and is compatible with any breathing gas.

By geriatric diver: Very good
I bought this because ScubaPro stopped making parts for any older Scubapro model reg.
I am glad that I was forced to change. This reg is like breathing above water. It has never free-flowed. It goes a long time between servicing, but I do not recommend this practice.
It is light and comfortable.

By Greg: Scubapro = The Best!!!
This makes breathing effortless down under!! Don’t hesitate, just buy it!! Am going to buy another one for my son as a Christmas gift!!

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One of the most common scuba diving equipments that the diver requires is the regulator or piston. One of the oldest and the most reliable ones in the market is the Scubapro regulator. The popular balanced and adjustable second stage version of the G250 is back and now it is in a better version with a new design. This piston comes now in a Vintage edition with loads of technical improvements. For those who have used the G250 for years the new G250V is the ultimate solution to their needs. The innovated MK25/G250V Regulator comes with the enhanced features of DIN/INT first stage configuration, balanced piston air flow, anti-freeze resistance, a new VIVA knob for convenient Venturi adjustments even if the diver is wearing thick gloves. The regulator also has a concept cover concept that gives the diver enhanced breathing performance by at least 50%. The makers of this the G250 have worked on this classic product to re-invent it to meet the demands of the modern world. The regulator has been enjoying positive reviews rendered by technical divers worldwide because of its high-end quality and unbeatable performance.

This piston is ideal for technical divers as it gives them unbeatable performance at the size of the G250. Cold water divers have given the verdict that this piston has better anti-freeze resistance. The MK 25 regulator renders unfailing performance and it carries its heritage of patented features that do not fail to disappoint. Manufactured by SCUBAPRO that is the leader of pistons for scuba diving the MK25 has a very consistent and stable performance and is ranked to be a superior regulator.

The regulator is superior because of its facility to render ultra stable pressure that result in a high delivery of air that makes it very punctual. This is perfect for a carefree dive that requires air-flow at any water temperature and instant air-flow. If you are a regular scuba diver you can rely on the benefits of the first stage piston that is reliable and has fewer requirements for maintenance. The piston has fewer parts that move because of a simple and effective mechanism and this is the reason why users rate this piston to be superior when it comes to the high rate of delivery of air in the first stage when controlled.

When it comes to the air balanced flow through the regulator the first stages of the air balanced pistons tend to deliver more air significantly to the next stage better than other first stage ones. The main problem with the others is that their performance is not affected by the tank pressure that changes. With the aid of a balanced piston, the use of light and more sensitive components of air cause ultra fast response to breathing and the immediate delivery of air that is required along with extra flow of air that is quite high in the case of low pressure ranges in tanks. This feature is very good for the tired diver as he/she gets a breathing regulator that is smooth especially at the ascent and the deco stop. The above balanced piston first stage is the first choice of many divers that are hard core scuba diving professionals as it has the potential to perform equally well in cold and warm water environments.

Divers also commend on another positive feature of the MK25 and that it the performance of its two high opposite high pressure ports that enhances the comfort of the diver. The presence of these two opposite high pressure ports permit the individual positioning of the first stage irrespective of the fact on whether it is pointing up or down. This feature is beneficial to the diver who makes an attempt to position the gauges on either the right or left and this in the process allows the diver to get enhanced freedom of head and neck movement.

Another positive feature of the Scubapro MK25/G250V regulator is that it allows the diver to adjust the piston externally to tackle immediate pressure. The regulator also is made of a brass body that is chrome plated and has very good resistance to corrosion that ensures durability.

The diver is also able to get ultimate freedom due to the presence of multiple low pressure ports in the regulator. The arrangement of the low pressure hoses in the MK25 also permits the scope of five high flow ports even when there is a swiveling turret and these hoses provides the diver with a 360 degrees swivel of hoses. There are also high flow ports that tend to deliver about 15% of additional air than the other conventional ports.  The MK25 is one that is best used in warm water and extreme depths. Divers are happy with its comfort and adjustability and they have found that the regulator had helped them to breathe without hassles during the whole dive. Most of the users of the regulator have added that they did not have to make extra efforts to breathe. Hard core divers and professionals recommend the use of this piston to everyone interested in scuba diving. Since the regulator is Nitrox compatible it has the advantages of being suited to the deep depths. The regulator successfully blows the air into the mouth of the diver and the presence of a metal barrel does not make the mouth dry either. There are many divers that have also commended on the looks of the regulator saying that it sports manly looks for the ideal scuba diver.

Regarded as a top piece of equipment for technical divers, there have been positive reviews of divers reaching 40m depth without any kind of breathing hassles. There are many divers that are also happy with the price and this is the reason why they have also rendered top ranks for the product as well. There are many divers that rate the piston as an excellent one. It is highly recommended not only because of its price but because of its features too. It is a value for money buy that does not let you down , the cheapest price for Scubapro MK25/G250V Regulator is 399.95$ at the time of review.

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Zeagle Express Tech Review

The item of gear that allows a diver to control their position in the water column, the buoyancy compensator is a crucial piece of dive gear. It not only allows us to control our position but also holds the tank. BC’s come in different configurations. These are generally divided into two classes. The jacket style; which generally has a bladder that wraps around the diver as it inflates and the back inflate; where the bladder is entirely on the back. Both essentially do the same thing. They allow the diver to control their position in the water column. The jacket style is the perhaps the most commonly seen in use by new divers. One of its characteristics that make it popular is that it tends to keep divers more upright and higher in the water when on the surface. The back inflate is believed to have a tendency to push a diver face forward on the surface. This is in fact a myth!

First of all the BC needs an air cell to inflate and deflate. It also needs a way to accomplish that. That way is via the power inflator. A BC power inflator is a device that is connected to the bladder by a corrugated hose. This hose generally is located on the left side and connects to the BC in the area of the shoulder. Some are connected in the center of the air cell. The power inflator is also connected to the tank by the regulators low pressure inflator hose. By depressing a button air is allowed to flow into the BC via a Schrader valve. Another button is used to control a valve that allows air to escape the BC. When venting or allowing the air to escape the BC the Inflator needs to be raised above the level of the connection to the BC or a trap – similar to that under your sink – is formed and the air cannot escape. Many BC’s however also have additional valves known as dump valves to allow air to be vented without using the power inflator. We all know that air will rise to the highest point underwater. When using the power inflator to vent some models require the diver to get nearly vertical in the water. Now as we have previously discussed – divers do not swim vertically! Our ideal position is horizontal.

When choosing a BC, one should not fall for the hype and gimmicks. One thing about gimmicks is that they are also known as failure points! Levers that add and allow air to be vented as opposed to standard inflators, drop down pockets, lots of D rings, and claims that these will make you a better diver should be ignored. The only thing that will make you a better diver is good training and diving regularly. I can take any BC that I can get on –regardless of size, style, or configuration- and within 10 minutes get horizontal and have full control over my buoyancy. This is the result of practice, experience, understanding the effects water has on me and my equipment, and proper weighting and trim. None of which is beyond the grasp of the average OW diver who wants to achieve this level of competence. A BC is a tool. As with any tool- simple is usually better

With this in mind, how do we choose a BC? First of all we should not look for the most expensive model. High price does not mean that one BC is better than another. In fact price has little to do with buying a quality BC. What matters is what the BC will do for the diver and how it will suit their needs. Earlier I noted that some believe that back inflate BC’s tend to push a diver forward in the water. This is a myth. Back mounted BC’s on a properly weighted diver DO NOT push a diver face forward into the water. This myth is perpetuated by divers and even instructors who simply do not understand them or know how to set them up. This myth is also perpetuated by dive shops that want to sell high priced BC’s. There are very expensive back inflate BC’s made by a number of companies. And if one has the money they can buy one. But they are not necessary for the new recreational diver and most times for the experienced diver as well.

What I look for in a BC is function. Looks are not very important and a lot of gadgets and doodads are nothing more than stuff that adds to the cost with no real benefit. I consider myself a minimalist diver. In that if I don’t really need it on the dive it stays in the bag or in the dive shop. Whether one chooses a jacket style, back inflate, hybrid, or modular system like a back plate and wing; simple is better. There is simply no need for a diver to spend more than a few hundred dollars on a BC. This is where the Zeagle Express Tech fits the bill on all counts. The Express Tech is a no frills, well constructed and well designed BC. The BC is based on the idea that less is more. The unit is lightweight due to the soft backpack and lack of unnecessary padding.

The Express Tech features two cam bands as seen above. These insure that the tank stays put when the straps have been properly tightened. The one shown is the BC I own myself and have added two weight pouches from XS Scuba. These allow me to add a few pounds to the BC to aid in trimming me out. By adding 2-3 lbs to each pouch depending on the exposure suit I’m wearing, I can set the BC up to mimic my steel Backplate from my Backplate and Wing set up. This aids in horizontal trim by placing the weight over my lungs where it needs to be. I have also added 4  D- Rings, and a replaced the standard buckle with a steel one from Piranha Dive Gear. The plastic one is not a cheap one. It is very heavy and my replacing it is simply a matter of personal choice, not function. I also use a plastic buckle on my weight belt and by having a steel one on the BC it helps to eliminate confusion if my buddy should need to dump my weights in an emergency. The Straps on the BC are not padded and neither is the soft backpack.

While it may look uncomfortable I assure you with just a t-shirt it is not. Add an exposure suit and you don’t even notice the lack of padding. There are two straps on the BC that are adjustable at the shoulder. The generous amount of webbing on the straps presents the user with one of the nest features of the BC. It is almost infinitely adjustable. I have had the BC on a young lady who was perhaps 98 lbs and a little under 5 feet tall. 20 minutes later I took the same BC and put it on her grandfather who was perhaps 170 lbs and 5 feet 9 inches tall. I then allowed her father who is 6 feet 2 and 225 lbs to try it on. This BC can fit nearly anyone! If you look at the backpack you will see numerous grommets for attaching accessories and a set of center holes. This BC can be used with lighter double cylinder setups such as aluminum 80’s or steel 72’s. The wing shown has 24lbs or 10.9 kilos of lift. There are optional wing sizes available for divers who would be using the BC in cold water and wearing a thicker suit that requires more lead. The lack of padding and soft back pack makes this the ideal travel BC. Deflated and carefully folded the BC will fit in a backpack and allow it to be taken as carryon luggage thereby avoiding excess baggage charges.

Another unique feature is the inflator. Zeagle has come up with way to not only inflate the BC but make it easier to rinse the inside of the BC. Simply unscrew the inflator from the corrugated hose as shown below.

Then hook a standard garden hose up to the end and run fresh water through the hose. The double dump valves on the bottom rear of the BC will allow the water and any salt or silt to flush out. Then simply replace the inflator, add a little air, and hang as you would any other BC. The BC is also available with a shorter inflator hose and plain elbow instead of the shoulder pull dump for those who want that feature. I had planned to go with this option but soon saw it as unnecessary. I have plain elbows on my Backplate and Wing setups but this is easy to get used to. The BC may also be used with the Zeagle integrated octo/inflator. Although in my opinion that just adds another big clunky thing on the end of the hose that seems to defeat the minimalist design of this BC.

Perhaps the best feature of this BC is the price. In the US the suggested retail is around $250 US for a quality BC. The added D-Rings and steel buckle added around $30 to the cost of the BC. The two weight pockets were around $10 each and for a grand total of $300 plus tax you can have a BC that will work in cold water and in the tropics. While I normally dive a Backplate and Wing on a great many dives the Zeagle Express Tech is my BC of choice for single tank diving. Whether in warm or cooler water the Zeagle Express Tech meets the challenge. For those who may be reading this that do not have a Zeagle dealer near them the company does allow internet sales. Just go on line and do a search for the BC. There is now a version they call a deluxe version that has padded straps, quick releases on the straps, and an optional weight system. For those that want these features they may be nice but can bring the cost of the BC to up over $400 and for someone looking to purchase a low cost BC, the additions defeat the purpose.  You can buy this scuba diving equipment clicking image below.

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Seac Sub Pro 2000

A BCD is a very personal part of your dive gear. It is donning your BCD that makes you feel ready for a dive, It is the base of your life support system and it is the thing you will customize the most – clipping, strapping, tie-wrapping and generally stuffing things into it. It is the hub of your dive gear and you will want to get one that suits you as a diver.

Being an instructor, I need lots of gear – spare masks, spare weights, a compass, a reel with SMB, a knife, a pointer, a whistle, a flashlight, a writing slate and teaching slates – and that’s assuming I’m not doing a specialty course! I need a BCD that has a home for all this stuff. I also need a BCD that can handle the kind of wear and tear that comes from being shoved in and out of boxes, boats, shops and the sea. I look after my gear as best as I can but that isn’t quite as good as it would be if I were just in this for a hobby, this is a job so things get abused.

So, when I was looking for a new BCD I went looking for a big, heavy-duty rig with rings, clips and pockets galore. I found what I was looking for in the Seac Sub Pro 2000. It is a very, very heavy BCD. I mean that both in terms of the abuse it was designed to withstand but also its physical weight – it must be the heaviest BCD I’ve ever lifted! This poses no problem to me as I do not tend to travel much with my BCD, this is a work tool and so it only moves from dive shop to boat and back. As such it remains fully configured with all my auxiliary gear in place in the various clip points and pockets. When fully configured it is even heavier still – I’d put it at around 5-7kg depending on the set-up.

Seac Sub Pro 2000

Let’s break down the features:

Materials and Structure

• Bladder – The Pro 2000 is a single bladder BCD which makes it a little less puncture resistant that if it were a double bladder system. This does not mean that it is weak, just not top of the line. The inner bladder and outer shell are both made from polyurethane coated nylon though the outer shell is constructed from higher grade nylon. The bladder distributes two-thirds of the air to the back of the jacket and one-third to the front, this arrangement means that the diver is well balanced in most positions.
• Straps – The straps are standard fare BDC straps – fairly uncomfortable without exposure protection and they have a mildly abrasive edge that might irritate an exposed neck if you pick the wrong size of jacket. They do appear very strong though, they have to be when you put weights in the pockets and a tank on the back!
• Colour/Appearance – The BCD is a very functional and robust looking piece of kit, but it doesn’t look pretty. Quite the contrary – I think it looks butt ugly, but in a sort of militaristic manner (inspired by the camouflage green of the outer shell) which might give it a certain army chic. I don’t think it could ever be “cool” unless talking in a purely engineering sense.

Ease of Use

• Power Inflator - The piston based inflator system on this jacket is ergonomic and modern in design. It is nicely responsive when pressed hard but allows a high level of control for accurate inflation. The slight drawback for me as an instructor is that both the inflate and deflate buttons are black – there is no obvious colour discrimination between the two which makes explaining the system to students a little harder. I rectified this problem with a little bright yellow paint on the inflator button.
• Wings – The BCD has a set of adjustable wings that can be either strapped in tight against the BCD (presumable for ease of movement in tight spaces) or they can be unfurled to provide stability in horizontal swimming. I have them deployed when diving and find that they do add a little extra steadiness.
• Weight System/Trim Weights – The BCD has an integrated weight system which is one of the most simple yet effective styles I’ve come across. It comprises of two removable pockets that can accommodate up to 5kg each which simply slide along a hard plastic rail and “click” into place. To supplement this there are two trim pockets at the rear of the BCD that will each take 2.5kg, this is in place to help distribute the weight better and allow for exact buoyancy control.
  

  Simple Integrated Weights, Just Pull On The Red Handles!

• Adjustability/Harness – This is the Pro 2000’s party trick. This BCD is adjustable in every direction possible. It has an AHS (adjustable harness system) that allows the BCD to be extended or shortened for longer or shorter backs, the whole webbing can be brought in to accommodate larger or smaller torsos and, of course, it is shoulder strap adjustable too. Serious changes can be a hassle but are well worth it and will pay you back in comfort.
  

  Adjustable Harness System

• Tank Band – I am not a fan of this single tank band system. It is nigh on impossible to get a very secure fit with the tank. I’ve never had a tank slip out, but there is sufficient wriggle that I am always a little concerned that my luck might run out. I have considered swapping it for a Scuba Pro tank band with metal clip – those bands are fantastic!
• Handle – The BCD uses a fabric handle with rubber grip rather than using a plastic handle in the back plate. This also doubles as the safety strap which is surprisingly convenient and easy to put on.

Storage

• Pockets – This is a very strong point for this BCD. It has two main zipper pockets which have a very wide opening and have cavernous space within them. This is complemented with an additional pocket which uses a Velcro/buckle combo to secure it (this pocket is ideal for slates). There is even a small pocket tucked into the cummerbund strap. This small zipper pocket is perfect size for a spare 800g weight for students which, because it is in the middle of your body, doesn’t affect your balance.
  

  Third Pocket - Great For Teaching/Writing Slates

• Rings – There are several different D rings placed all over the BCD which are made from different materials to serve different functions. There are metal D rings which are great for clipping large bulky objects (SMB, compass and retractor etc), there are smaller nylon rings for lighter items and then there are two fabric loops which I have attached my auxiliary knife to.
  

  Fabric Hoops, Ideal For Securing Your BCD Knife To

• Octopus Retainer – Conveniently located on the right shoulder strap is an elastic loop with a toggle which serves as a surprisingly effective alternate air source holder. You simply stretch the band over the mouthpiece of the octo and it will stay in place. When needed you can give it a firm tug and it will pop out of the elastic. A very low tech solution, but very effective.

Final Thoughts

The Seac Sub Pro 2000 is a great, hard working BCD. It is the Land Rover Defender of buoyancy jackets so it’s not to everyone’s taste. It works great when you don’t need to transport it too much, but it’s no good for those who think the diving platform at the back for the boat is a catwalk. I love the fact that it has the same features as a high end BCD for  a mid-range price tag.

Pros:

• Simple, robust materials – durable.
• Minimal fuss integrated weight system, with trim pockets.
• Four pockets, different sizes – many applications.
• Fully adjustable harness and straps.
• Huge array of D rings and hoops for clipping on gear.
• Optional foldaway wings for stability in the water.
• Loads of features, reasonable price.

Cons:

• Very heavy and bulky, especially when configured with gear, weights in the pockets and a tank strapped on – might be too much for some to get out of the water with. No good for travelling, even when stripped of equipment.
• Edge of straps are a little rough, can leave a rash on an exposed neck
• The tank band is a weak design, consider replacing it.
• Ugly, and although this is subjective, it’s not sleek by any standards…

By Jamie Campbell

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Dive computers. These two words will either send you to sleep or drive you into a geeky frenzy that will have you trolling the internet for hours, looking at specifications and comparing features. I fall into the latter category. And the Suunto Vyper Air was made for divers like me. I will say, with great confidence that the Vyper Air has too many features for the lay recreational diver. That is not to say that they will be unsatisfied with the computer; it is clear, simple to use and has all the important information available on one screen. My point is that the average diver will have all they require in a Suunto Zoop (for a much reduced price), the features in the Viper are mostly gadgets rather than “must haves”… But I love gadgets, so I’ll continue.

The Vyper Air has a few major additions compared to the last version of the Vyper; namely the forty-five degree tilt compass, the ability to download your log to a pc, the full dive simulator and its namesake – the air integration receiver.

The Compass

The electronic compass that is built into the Vyper Air is at once a revolutionary piece of equipment and an unnecessary hassle. The compass is built to operate up to a tilt angle of forty-five degrees. This is actually a better tilt tolerance than their best analogue compass, the SK-7 (which sticks at thirty degrees). However, before you throw your standard compass overboard you should consider the interface on the Vyper Air – it’s a flat screen with numbers that state your current bearing. I know that this is sufficient for navigating but I find that being able to look at a rotating dial from above is far more intuitive and allows for a quicker glance at the device. For backup navigation, it is excellent but it doesn’t replace the simplicity and reliability of my trusty SK-7.

Downloadable Content

This is a real selling point for the über-geeks among us as it allows us to continue our fiddling well after we’ve dried off. It is simply a convenient and pleasant way to view the details of last dives, though it still can’t log where you saw the whale shark or a what depth that pesky trigger fish lurks…

Dive Simulator

A dive simulator might appear like a gimmick at first but it does provide a useful service to those who are completely allergic to the RDP, but who would like to be a little more proactive with their dive planning. It allows a diver to fully explore the possible dive profiles they might use on a given dive.

Air Integration

At last, we come to the real reason why this computer exists, the air integration receiver that gives the Viper Air its name. Suunto Vyper Air can sync with a tank pressure transmitter and display your air supply details on your wrist. Along with this the computer estimates how much longer your air supply will last based on current breathing rate, though as far as I can tell this data relies on your depth not varying. Otherwise, if you think you can plan your air better than a calculator then this data is arbitrary. It also allows for you to remove a hose from your first stage (in the form of the SPG), though I like having a reliable analogue gauge at my side.

You might feel I’m being a little harsh on the Vyper Air, being as each feature could be useful to a certain diver at some point and I agree. It also has a great deal of merit because it is a very capable Nitrox computer that will go from 21% O2 right the way up to 100% in one percent intervals. And don’t forget that it uses Suunto’s new Deepstop RGBM algorithm that is designed with the deep diver in mind and factors in short, deeper safety stops that allow the body to exhaust nitrogen in stages. This is a fantastic computer with potentially useful features that may make your dives easier, though ultimately this is a feature-freak’s computer and is designed to make geeks happy… and I am, thank you Suunto!

Pros

• Full Nitrox support and gas switching
• 45 degree tilt compass
• Dive simulator
• Full air integration (transmitter sold separately)
• PC downloader (cable sold separately.
• Deepstop RGBM
• Clear Screen
• Backlight
• Thermometer
• Large capacity logbook
• Various alarms – depth, time, ascent rate, etc
• Replaceable screen guards (a big plus if you’re as clumsy as I am!)

Cons

• Bulky
• Ugly (subjective)
• Pricey (especially if you want to use air integration and pc downloading)
• Compass requires patience to learn
• Debatable necessity for air integration.

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Aeris’ 400 Pro DVT regulator’s patented dry valve design means you won’t have to sacrifice performance and durability in order to have a regulator that won’t flood. This pneumatically-balanced second stage will be the work horse of your dive gear; it will keep you breathing easily dive after dive. The diver-adjustable breathing valve allows you to control the airflow to match your breathing rate and body’s air needs.

The 400 Pro DVT’s lightweight design and patented orthodontic mouthpiece mean you’ll be comfortable and breathing easily throughout your dive and won’t face post-dive jaw discomfort once you’ve returned to the surface.
The Aeris AT400 Pro Regulator has a pneumatically balanced, adjustable second stage is sure to provide you the highest performance for many years. The pneumatically balanced second stage provides the lowest possible inhalation effort. The AT400 Pro second stage adjustment allows you to adjust your breathing effort, fine-tuning the regulator to your desired setting throughout your dive.

The venturi assist deflector vane on the Aeris AT400 Pro Regulator directs airflow from the valve directly to the mouthpiece producing a smooth “venturi assisted” inhalation. Turning the venturi assist down, to a pre-dive position, prevents The Aeris AT400 Pro Regulator from free-flowing while on the surface.

• Pneumatically balanced
• Diver-adjustable inhalation effort
• Adjustable venturi switch
• Nitrox compatible to 40%

The Aeris AT400 Pro Regulator has a High performance over-balanced diaphragm first stage with environmental seal and the added protection of DVT (Dry Valve Technology).

• 4 LP ports, 2 HP ports for maximum hose placement
• DVT eliminates corrosion of critical internal components, bacteria, hose deterioration, and damaged gauges and computers.

DVT is a revolutionary regulator technology designed to automatically eliminate moisture and contaminants from entering your first stage, even if the dust cap is accidentally left off. DVT eliminates corrosion of critical internal components, bacteria, hose deterioration, and damaged gauges and computers.

What Others Say About This Dive Regulator

Verified Buyer from LeisurePro
This regulator is simply amazing. Breathing is effortless, even at 100+ feet. The dry valve technology does a great job (definately saved the day on numerous occasions). I’ve never had any problems with it, and it doesn’t cause jaw fatigue.

Advanced Diver
I have 55 dives on this regulator, and have used it everywhere from Northern California to Cozumel. I have never had a single issue with it. Great reg at a reasonable price.

Padi instructor
Although my reg is still fairly new, I have put more than a dozen dives on it. It’s been to 107fsw and has performed flawlessly. This reg breaths for you! Forget jaw fatigue. The DVT feature is very handy and the second stage adjustments are are set-it-and-forget-it simple

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The Galileo Luna computer from Scubapro is the most recent  addition to the Galileo family manufactured by famous Uwatex. The Luna dive computer has a full-tilt digital compass, extra large display  and a huge memory , as well as a choice of three pre-figured screen (Light, Full and Classic) displays and micro-bubble management. The Galileo Luna is a hoseless air-integrated dive computer.  There is an option to upgrade this dive computer  to read as much as four transmitters and support  three gas mixes up to 100%.  One the of great part of Luna is the ease-of-use. All three control buttons are clearly labeled and it is quite difficult to get lost. At depth Galileo Luna offers  its  data on its display with depth, dive time, psi and NDLs prominently displayed. Divers can setup  up to 6 micro-bubble suppression levels for additional safety.

Large display, choice of data screens and excellent digital compass, makes this dive computer an excellent addition to Galileo family. So it will be safe to say that this product is one of the most advanced dive computers currently offered in the market.

Prices vary but it seems that the best deal is offered thru LeisurePro

What’s New

• Complete navigational system with integrated digital compass and bearing memory, virtually unaffected by tilt. Ease and accuracy, all in one instrument.
• Galileo combines an extra large dot matrix display with a huge memory for unprecedented flexibility:
• PDIS (Profile Dependent Intermediate Stops) optimizes your dive in complete security.
• Hoseless gas integrated computer: when used with a Smart transmitter you get tank pressure and true remaining bottom time (RBT) on the computer screen.
• Galileo can be reprogrammed through its infrared interface, meaning you can easily upgrade your computer with new functions and features downloaded from our website.
• Predictive Multi Gas algorithm: allowing you to enjoy the full benefits of high oxygen concentration mixes.
• User friendly graphic data display, shows you tissue loading and oxygen toxicity levels as a bar graph.

Ability to store personal information

The diver can simply enter  his/her personal info  ( such as name, cert. numbers). Also the Luna can store information about your dive insurance , contacts,  some medical information (such as allergies); in case of an accident these information can easily be accessed at the touch of a button.

• Alarms and warnings appear on the large display in clear text in pre-chosen language, thus you’ll never misunderstand important signals while enjoying the beauty  of the underwater world. The beeps of alarms can’t be turned off, but you can do it for warnings. You have an option to choose to receive warning  of either only visual, only audible or both.
• Galileo’s interface is user friendly and quite easy to use. It’s like a cell phone so you can setup and view all interface elements for complete personalization without hassle.

The exclusive advantage of dive  computers from UWATEC is that they be upgraded. You can download the update packages from the Internet to add new features, new languages and so on.

For  additional amount of money  UWATEC Galileo Luna  can be upgraded with 2 additional features and they are available at your Authorized SCUBAPRO UWATEC dealer, these two features can be added quickly via: galileo.uwatec.com.

• Predictive Multi-Gas upgrade: Purchasing this PMG feature at a later time, or whenever you need it, allows LUNA to use up to 3 Nitrox mixes (21-100% O2) during the dive, calculating the ascent schedule for all possible combinations of the programmed mixes. The outcome of the different decompression calculations can be shown on the screen in a dedicated deco summary screen.
• Heart Rate Monitor upgrade: Galileo’s heart rate monitor, has been developed together with Polar (one of the world leaders  in the niche of heart rate monitors), not only measures and records the heartbeat during the dive but allows the dive computer to factor the intensity of the exercise into the decompression calculation, as it is reported by the diver’s physiology. The HRM is also ideal for Apnea divers, measuring heart rate and sounding an alarm if the heart rate drops below the set level.

Some great features which I like

• Full-tilt digital compass with bearing memory
• Extra large dot matrix display and huge memory
• Hoseless gas integration
• PDIS (Profile Dependent Intermediate Stops) for optimized diving
• Choice of 3 pre-figured screen display modes; Light, Full and Classic
• Easy to use interface, similar to a cell phone
• Personalize with owner or emergency or health information
• Oil filled technology
• User replaceable battery
• Infrared technology and PC download capability
• Heart rate monitor system and Predictive Multi gas features are available to upgrade. These are not included with item and should be purchased separately.
• True remaining bottom time (RBT) calculated using tank pressure, breathing rate, depth, ideal ascending speed and more.
• Nitrox compatibility
• Microbubble management.

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Oceanic Datamask HUD dive computer

Have you ever though about the idea to dive without using dive computer on your hand ? Well what can I say, the Oceanic Datamask HUD dive computer simply allows you to do that. The dive computer is Integrated in the mask. It represents itself as small LCD panel that shows depth, psi of air in cylinder, time, and decompression stop info and the most important part is ” You can always see them in front of you ” , without use of your hands. The miniature LCD allows you to keep your eyes focused on the dive while presenting critical dive data including: current depth, elapsed dive time, cylinder pressure, and dive time remaining. The Digital Optic System provides a clear, highly magnified image of the LCD, which is viewable regardless of environmental conditions and may be seen clearly by the vast majority of people, regardless of vision. Like all other dive computers this one also have ability to alarm if you ascend too quickly, you’re low on air or already spent a lot of time at depth and etc. It also has user replaceable batteries, and allows uploading of dive data to you your computer. So DATAMASK HUD (Heads Up Display) – featuring an advanced air-integrated dive computer – built directly into the mask! is a scuba equipment which can make your dive more comfortable. Well I would like to also to post youtube video representing Oceanic DATAMASK HUD Scuba Dive Computer

Buy it now

Product Features

• Integrated dive computer (built directly into the mask)
• Wireless Air Integrated Technology
• Miniature Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) Panel
• Proprietary Digital Optic System
• Microprocessor
• Depth Transducer
• Wireless Cylinder Pressure Receiver
• OceanLog® PC Download and Settings Upload Software and USB Cable included

Official Description
Military Special Forces won’t get in the water without it and soon you can dive with it. We?re talking about the DATAMASK HUD ? featuring an advanced air-integrated dive computer ? built directly into the mask! The DATAMASK contains a miniature liquid crystal display (LCD) panel, proprietary Digital Optic System, microprocessor, depth transducer, wireless cylinder pressure receiver, diver replaceable battery, and controlling software. The miniature LCD allows you to keep your eyes focused on the dive while presenting critical dive data including: current depth, elapsed dive time, cylinder pressure, and dive time remaining. The Digital Optic System provides a clear, highly magnified image of the LCD, which is viewable regardless of environmental conditions and may be seen clearly by the vast majority of people, regardless of vision

Reviews across the net

Tisro Diaz (Review from Amazon.com )

I just made a few dives with the new toy and I am quite happy with it. I find it excellent for diving in bad visibility especially if you have someone with you you want to keep an eye on. The display is easy to read, all relevant information available and quite simple to operate. Disadvantage: The mask is heavy and a bit bulky. Underwater I found it difficult to perform equalization as it is hard to get to the nose with thick dry suit gloves.

Summary: Cool tool for diving in bad visibility and for teaching when you have to keep your eyes on your students. But I will stick to my wrist computer for holiday diving in clear, warm water.

Arina Danesa ( Review from leisurepro.com )

Oceanic Datamask HUD dive computer is very easy to use. The price is bit expensive , but you’re paying for high quality product. I’m totally satisfied with my purchase

redange81 ( ebay Feedback left )

Dive computers recieved and used . It’s outstanding expirience

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Throughout the years the two main authors whom I’ve always turned to are Martin Edge and Howar Hall. I have been eagerly awaiting the second book for a long time! His new book has greatly exceeded both my hopes and my expectations. What a major treat this book is to those who like to know where all of the dream hotels, dive sites, and perfect photographic opportunities are located! Another wonderful feature of this great book is that it also includes information about other activities for members of your family that don’t dive if they are the kind that has no interest whatsoever in learning how to dive so that they could join you. This book is the perfect travel advisor for anyone who is interested in exotic luxury vacations that may or may not include diving. Great location ideas are included in this book for all including singles, couples and families. These great ideas are so plentiful that you will be able to utilize this book for years to come. Throughout the entire book he provides a vast wealth of information that is not only practical but friendly and unhurried as well. This is an excellent book that is quite an enjoyable read. It is full of tips, ideas, advice and stunning pictures. Another great aspect about this book that is really wonderful is that the author never gets lost in the technical know-how. He does not address the reader as though he or she is an idiot. Cover to cover this book left no subject matter out of the discussion regarding underwater photography. Fantastic photographs, detailed information about times of year to see various fish, dive site locations and information and general weather patterns are just a few of the many other great things that are incorporated into the book. Martin Edge’s new book clearly sets the standards for ease of use, clarity, and up to date information. I was so excited to be able to try out some of the new techniques discussed in his book. I did so while happily exploring the many underwater treasures it is possible to see these days. In conclusion, this is the best instructional how to book that I have ever taken the time to read. Martin Edge uses very clear explanations, tips and tricks that are very straightforward, and includes tons of beautiful photographs. Martin Edge’s book, The Underwater Photographer, is the ultimate must have book. It will make the perfect present to give to the avid photographer in your life – even if that avid photographer is you!

Also please check Third edition of this book

The Underwater Photographer, Third Edition: Digital and Traditional Techniques

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It seems like Simond has furnished a bible for divers. Finally the children, wives, husbands and US families have something to be jovial about. As a personal user I would like to mention that the book, “Dive in Style” advertises various sites where one can get thrilled and provides for full information on various attributes like climate, hotels, and scuba diving spots along with high contrast images.
It only takes fifteen minutes to get familiarize with the structure and content of the book. If you are a voracious traveler always looking for adventurous destination then the book is surely going to mesmerize you. In addition to some of the most descriptive answers to FAQ’s; the book also features unique photographs capturing wild beauty in its most beautiful forms.
The book “Dive in Style” takes care of each and every aspect of your holiday abroad. Tim SImond has done a fabulous job by covering a large number of hotels so that the travelers can make a choice of the same depending upon their budget and itinerary. Each hotel is added upon by the contact details along with a dedicated picture gallery.
The book is truly a feast for eyes covering some of the most beautiful Scuba diving locations. Tim Simond has also taken care of family members who do not dive, providing for information about other activities too.
On an all this book is highly comprehensive and stands up to the demand of scuba divers providing the most up to date information about the most happening scuba diving spots and at such a price the book is surely a bible for scuba divers.
In addition to the book, if you need any type of free information or instruction then this book also avails you of free online assistance.

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