new reg

[Eddie]

I bought the Mares Proton XL, heres what Mares has to say about it:
First stage
The brand new V32 first stage immediately sets itself apart with its distinctive aesthetics and exceptionally light weight for a first stage of this class. Its technical characteristics, with a diaphragm design and DFC system, are those of the famous MR22. Shockproof and scratch-resistant coating protects the hot-forged brass body with chrome-plated finish. The high-pressure valve features the SCS spherical seal system, for superior durability. The low and high-pressure ports are positioned for optimal hose routing and maximum diver comfort.

Second stage
Top-level performance for one of the most compact second stages on the market. Proton XL is a technological powerhouse. Integrated VAD system for effortless natural breathing. Two-component second stage body construction, which offers exceptionally light weight, (just 182 grams) as well as a unique look and superior resistance to abrasion. Anodized aluminum inserts enhance the front coverplate, incorporating the "mesh-grid" system. The exhaust valve can be easily inspected or replaced through a special opening in the exhaust ports. The first stage hose is of the "super soft" type for maximum diver comfort.
The brand new mouthpiece has been designed to ensure a secure grip with minimal jaw fatigue.

I am certainly glad I bought it.... great reg..

[Mdemon]

OK, someone put me out of my misery.

Is an ATX50 as good as a TX50?  Same for ATX40 v's TX40.  I know the ATX is the later model, but...

Just bought an ATX50 + ATX40 octo (DIN) at LIDS (£224 - seemed very reasonable at the time).

Hoping I haven't bought the wrong thing...!

[ianwheeldon]

thanks everyone. i reckon i'll go for apeks or mares as most of my diving is around 30m. Andy p, i'd be very interested in buying your 1st and 2nd stage and octo. i dont know how much they are new so you'll have to give me some idea. give us a ring on 01332 206452. or i will see you in anglesey at weekend if you're going.
thanks again for everyones advice.
ian.      

[Andy Phillips]

Hi Ian,

Best to see you in Anglesey, easiest way,

Andrew

[ianwheeldon]

see you then andy.

[Mark Chase]

<font color='#000F22'>TX v ATX

Both very good but some find filling a SMB from the skimpy ATX mouth exaust a bit of a problem.Apart from that I have heard no complaints.

ATX's are smaller and lighter in the mouth than the TX

I have two TX 50's and a TX 40 and I think they are very good. I use the TX50 as main back gas reg and long stop high 02 deco reg and they are a lovley breath. Posyden are a love them or hate them thing so try to try first. I didnt like them but some people that I respect a lot swear by them.


ATB

Mark Chase

[Mdemon]

Cheers Mark.

(BTW, just got Independant - got a 12! &nbsp;One more of us, one less of them... ) &nbsp;

[jjflash]

<font color='#0000FF'>Just as an aside to Eddie post about the Mares - agreed the V32 / Proton XL is a very nice reg - lovely breath but it will freeflow in stock form in cold water - we took my other halfs to Capers about 4 weeks back and towards the end of a 25 minute pootle it started off - not massively out of control and still breathable but free flow all the same. Water was about 5C tops.

You can get a cold water kit which Mares say must be fitted at time of purchase though you could probably get it retro fitted - cost is about £45 for the parts.

I use Scubapro and have never had a flow, nor with some basic Oceanic Alpha 7/SP4s either.

Paul