Gear Reviews
Scubaverse Group Equipment Test: Regulators between £295 and £465
The Scubaverse Group Test Team
The Scubaverse Group Gear Testing Team are a diverse bunch, with recreational divers, instructors & tech divers in the mix. The team tested these regulators over a 40min dive at Capernwray Diving Centre in Lancashire, UK with a max dive depth of 18m.
Group Test Team Members
- Yo-Han Cha: Yo-Han is a PADI Divemaster Candidate and a BSAC Sports Diver. He has been diving for 13 years, is a committed club diver and dives throughout the year in the UK.
- David Pilgrim: David is a PADI Master Instructor, a PADI Tech Deep Instructor, a TDI Advanced Trimix Diver, and has been diving for 20 years.
- Tom Tyler: Tom is a PADI MSDT, a BSAC Instructor and has been diving for 12 years.
- Andy Ciaramella: Andy is a PADI Master Scuba Diver Trainer, a BSAC Instructor, an AIDA Level 2 Freediver and has been diving for a very long time!
- Alex Tasker: Alex is a PADI Rescue Diver, an SDI Solo Diver and an IANTD ART, and has been diving for 8 years.
- Mich Gillian: Like Alex, Mich is also a PADI Rescue Diver, an SDI Solo Diver and an IANTD ART, and has been diving for 8 years.
- Nick Barrett: Nick is an experienced recreational diver who has dived all over the world.
The Scubaverse Group Test Team met up to put seven mid-price range regulators through their paces. All retail between £295 and £465 for first and second stage, and all the regulators we tested were DIN versions, set-up straight from the box.
The regulators included in this test were:
Aqua Lung Core Supreme: RRP £295
Zeagle Onyx II: RRP £365
Mares Abyss 52X: RRP £395
Cressi T10-SC Master: RRP £399
Scubapro MK17 EVO/G260: RRP £399
Apeks XTX50: RRP £453
Beuchat VR200 Soft Touch: RRP £465
What the makers say
Aqua Lung Core Supreme
A regulator that offers divers a mix of high-end technology at a pocket-friendly price. It features a balanced first and second stage for optimal performance underwater and Aqua Lung’s patented Auto Closure Device on the first stage to avoid water ingress. The Core Supreme is a cold water regulator that stands out from the rest.
Zeagle Onyx II
The sealed version of the Onyx. With the same attractive finish and outstanding performance as the Onyx regulator, the Onyx II fills the need for those that find themselves in cooler water.
Mares Abyss 52X
The king is dead, long live the king! This could be the motto for the rebirth of this iconic regulator. Looking closely, though, you’ll find that it’s about much more than mere image cultivation. At the heart of the new system is the completely redesigned first stage MR52T, which will raise the bar for regulators considerably.
Cressi T10-SC Master
This reg has been made for high-level scuba divers for performance, reliability and ease of maintenance. The T10SC 1st stage is environmentally sealed and balanced with a PVD coating so it will work in both warm and cold waters.
Scubapro MK17 EVO/G260
If you dive deep, dive cold, or often find yourself on silty bottoms, the MK17 EVO/G260 is the regulator for you. While you don’t need to dive less-than-pristine waters to appreciate this system, it’s a great choice for cold water or harsh conditions, which is why tech divers and cave explorers just love this reg.
Apeks XTX50
The XTX50 is for the discerning diver who wants the benefits of a feature-rich regulator at a moderate price. This popular regulator has four medium-pressure ports all mounted on a rotating turret, resulting in optimal hose routing while eliminating sharp bends in the hose.
Beuchat VR200 Soft Touch HF
A top of range regulator which combines advanced technology and cold resistance with elegance. It is entirely made in the Beuchat factory in France. And each Beuchat regulator is checked and adjusted individually on a specialised hyperbaric test bench.
The Review
European regulations mean that all regulators bought in the UK have to have a CE mark and so a basic minimum standard has to be reached to make it to market. These regulations are strict and so gone are the days when unsafe equipment might hit the market. Our team put each regulator to the test, looking at performance, looks and value for money. We put each one through a series of tests that included breathing whilst inverted, regulator recovery and purging, mouthpiece comfort, exhaust bubbles and hose length.
All these mid-range regulators were expected to perform well, regardless of position in the water. While we still had some hoses that seemed a bit short, as with the budget regulators we tested, many of these regulators included a lighter braided style hose, which pleased our test team. These were the Beuchat, Zeagle, Mares and Apeks models.
Here are the team’s results from each reg tested:
Aqua Lung Core Supreme
- Mouthpiece has a skirt that takes getting used to, but should be great for cold water
- Hose length good
- Dry breathe when inverted
- Bubbles – some in front but not many
Zeagle Onyx II
- Mouthpiece very soft – maybe even a bit too soft
- Hose length good
- Dry breathe when inverted
- Bubbles – quite a lot in field of vision
Mares Abyss 52X
- Mouthpiece – really comfortable, weighty and substantial
- Hose length good
- Dry breathe when inverted
- Bubbles – very few in field of vision
Cressi T10-SC Master
- Mouthpiece fairly standard, but works fine
- Hose length a bit short
- Dry breathe when inverted
- Bubbles – mostly to the side, with very few in field of vision
Scubapro MK17 EVO/G260
- Mouthpiece seemed a bit small but was actually very comfortable
- Hose length good
- Dry breathe when inverted
- Bubbles – very few in field of vision
Apeks XTX50
- Mouthpiece size was good – maybe a little on hard the hard side, but good
- Hose length a little short
- Dry breathe when inverted
- Bubbles – mostly to the side, with very few in field of vision
Beuchat VR200 Soft Touch
- Mouthpiece seemed a bit rough round the edges, but was actually very comfortable
- Hose length OK
- Dry breathe when inverted
- Bubbles – mostly to the side, with very few stray ones in field of vision
All of these regulators performed really well. You can certainly get some seriously good kit without breaking the bank for the more expensive models. But the ones singled out by our test team and given 5* in performance, looks and/or value for money were:
Apeks XTX50
“Excellent overall performance. No bubbles in view with this mask and a lovely breathe.” – Yo-Han
Mares Abyss 52X
“Mouth piece really comfortable, hose routing really good; cool bolt snap possibilities for second stage. You can feel the build quality.” – Alex
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Final Thoughts
This price range offers a whole lot of regulator for your money. Whilst a few of our testers had some niggles, overall performance was good. These are some of the most popular regulators on the market and you can see why, with good solid performance and build quality without breaking the bank. Next up with be the high-end price range regulators. How will they perform? Find out on Scubaverse.com soon.
Gear Reviews
GEAR REVIEW – Revolutionising Diving Comfort: The Sharkskin T2 Chillproof Suit
In a review written exclusively for Scubaverse.com, diver and blogger Katy Woodroffe from Katy Jane Dives takes a look at the T2 Chillproof Suit from Sharkskin.
Sharkskin wetsuits attract a lot of attention in online forums, with some divers swearing by them whilst others just can’t understand how a suit so thin and lightweight can provide the warmth they require. I too had my doubts, but I was able to put this suit to the test in one of the most challenging open water environments we know.
Embarking on an adventure in the Galapagos, I found the Sharkskin T2 Chillproof Suit to be an incredible ally. Designed to offer warmth, UV protection, and defense against the many marine stingers, this suit surpassed my initial reservations, providing a level of thermal insulation I did not expect and durability amidst the archipelago’s rugged underwater landscapes. Its lightweight, easy-to-wear design clearly sets it apart from traditional wetsuits, proving essential for divers prioritising comfort and efficiency.
Exceptional Performance in Varied Conditions
The suit’s performance was thoroughly tested in the Galapagos’ unpredictable waters. Despite its seemingly thin material, it offered extraordinary warmth and flexibility. The inclusion of Titanium Far Infrared (FIR) nano-technology within the fabric reflected my body’s heat, enveloping me in a warm embrace that countered the cold without adding bulk. This level of tech came in handy when we hit the common thermoclines, with my dive computer recording a drop of several degrees in water temperature. This, combined with the suit’s ease of use and quick-drying capabilities, in my opinion marks a significant advancement in dive gear.
However, the perception of warmth in the Sharkskin T2 Chillproof Suit can indeed vary among individuals. Divers accustomed to cooler waters may find the suit exceptionally warm and sufficient for their needs, due to their higher tolerance and acclimatisation to the cold. This aspect underscores the importance of considering personal resilience to cold and usual diving conditions when evaluating the suit’s effectiveness in providing thermal protection.
Durability Meets Innovation
Diving the volcanic underwater landscape of the Galapagos, the Sharkskin T2 Chillproof Suit proved its resilience. Engineered for both warmth and resistance to abrasion, it stands as a testament to high-quality construction and thoughtful design. I also tried out the optional accessories, including the hood and socks, which I felt complemented the suit well, and offered enhanced thermal protection and convenience.
The feature I enjoyed most about this suit was its neutral buoyancy, significantly lightening my load underwater. I found myself needing almost half the weight I typically would with a neoprene suit, making me feel incredibly free and unburdened.
It was a dream to travel with, folding up really small and didn’t take up much room in my dive bag. It was also super easy to get on and take off, even when wet, compared to your standard neoprene wetsuits (we’ve all been there), particularly when I used the socks with it too.
I also appreciate how Sharkskin has produced two styles, one for males and the other for females. The female fit was flattering, and it’s clear that the design team have worked hard to achieve this, all adding to the overall comfort of the suit.
A Worthwhile Investment
The suit is certainly priced in the premium segment, but I think it does justify its cost through the unique advanced features and excellent comfort. Its innovative features, such as the chest zip design and FIR technology, provide divers with a unique blend of warmth, flexibility, and ease of movement.
My personal journey from skepticism to trust in the Sharkskin suit has affirmed its value, making it a highly recommended choice for divers seeking excellent performance in diverse diving conditions.
Find out more about the T2 Chillproof Suit and other Sharkskin products at www.sharkskin.com.
Gear Reviews
Gear Review: Bigblue VTL2900PB Dive Torch: A Compact Powerhouse for Underwater Exploration
In a review written exclusively for Scubaverse.com, diver and blogger Katy Woodroffe from Katy Jane Dives takes a look at the VTL2900PB dive torch from Bigblue.
Bigblue Dive Lights has established itself as a leading manufacturer of dive lights, known for its innovative approach to underwater illumination. With a focus on creating durable, high-quality lighting solutions for divers of all levels, Bigblue combines advanced technology with user-friendly design.
Their product range, from compact torches to powerful video lights, caters to a wide spectrum of diving activities, ensuring safety and enhancing the underwater experience. The brand’s commitment to sustainability, seen in their rechargeable battery options, reflects a dedication to eco-friendly practices in the diving community.
First Impressions and Build Quality
Unboxing the sleek and compact Bigblue VTL2900PB immediately hints at its potential as a top-tier dive torch. It arrived with a comprehensive set of accessories including a Goodman glove, rechargeable battery, and charger, highlighting Bigblue’s attention to detail. While the inclusion of a dry bag is appreciated, a hard protective case might have offered better protection for this bit of gear which does come with a premium price tag.
Performance and Versatility
I tested this torch in various conditions whilst diving in the Galapagos Islands and was impressed with it’s power and range of lighting, all easily accessible at the push of a button.
Underwater, the VTL2900PB’s performance shines—literally. With a brightness of 2900 lumens across a wide beam and a 1000 lumens narrow beam, visibility in murky, or plankton filled waters like those around the Galapagos Archipelago, becomes a non-issue.
Its user-friendly interface, which allows divers to swiftly toggle between modes even with gloves on, enhances the underwater experience. I found the light’s beam distance and colour rendition to be excellent. The colour temperature sits at 6500k, or a “cool white” which does a good job at delivering a true display of colours, providing vivid visuals for photography and navigation.
Its versatility extends from illuminating vast underwater landscapes for photography to subtle communication with my dive buddies through its red light mode. I found this mode particularly useful when looking into small spaces within the rocks and coral, with the hope to not make anything stir and swim for cover.
Durably built from high-quality anodised aluminium alloy, and depth tested to 100 metres, the torch is both lightweight for travel and robust enough to withstand the underwater elements. I was quite confident that this torch would hold its own on the dive platform of a liveaboard boat without me having to worry about it too much.
Sustainable Power
Powered by a rechargeable Li-ion battery, the VTL2900PB offers up to 1.5 hours of light on its highest setting—perfect for multiple dives. This eco-friendly approach not only ensures prolonged adventures under the sea but also aligns with sustainable diving practices.
Pricing and Value
Priced at £415, the Bigblue VTL2900PB stands out in the competitive dive torch market by offering exceptional value. Its performance, durability, and included features such as a red light and blue light for fluoro diving, make it a wise investment for divers at all levels, particularly those with an interest in photography and videography. Despite the absence of a hard case, its overall quality and functionality make it an indispensable tool for any dive.
Concluding Thoughts
The Bigblue VTL2900PB torch is a reliable, versatile companion for divers, offering a blend of powerful illumination and user-friendly features.
Its construction, long-lasting battery, and thoughtful design are evidently well researched and underscore Bigblue’s commitment to enhancing divers’ underwater experiences. For those looking to capture the undersea world in all its glory or navigate the depths with confidence, the VTL2900PB is a standout choice that promises not to disappoint.
Bigblue have been in the dive light game for years, and without a doubt, will be here for many more years to come.
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