Scuba Diving Regulators
Scuba diving regulators are probably the most important piece of scuba diver gear. Therefore, educating oneself on the different components of scuba diving regulators is crucial to making the right choice when shopping for a new one.
In the following article, we will review the components of a scuba diving regulator while also looking at the pros and cons of different technology and manufacturing methods used in creating regulators. As we proceed through the article, recommendations will be made in terms of what we consider “best in class”. Let’s begin by first reviewing the purpose and function of a regulator.
Scuba Regulator Basics
A scuba diving regulator is actually a pressure regulator. Its primary function is to reduce the high-pressure gas supplied by the scuba cylinder to the ambient pressure surrounding the diver at depth. If the diver were to breathe compressed air directly from the cylinder, it could easily rupture his lungs.
Scuba diving regulators come in both one-stage and two-stage regulators. The reduction of air pressure from the diving cylinder to the diver is accomplished in two steps. The first stage of the regulator, which attaches to the cylinder valve, reduces the high pressure in the cylinder to an intermediate pressure approximately 140 psi over ambient pressure. This intermediate pressure fills a low-pressure hose that connects the first stage of the regulator to the second stage.
The second stage, contained in the diver’s mouthpiece, reduces the intermediate pressure to the ambient pressure. The regulator is known as a “demand regulator” because it only supplies air when the diver “demands” it; that is, gas flows through the regulator only when the diver inhales.
Scuba Regulator Components
Scuba diving regulators are either closed-circuit (commonly called re-breathers) or open-circuit. Closed-circuit regulators recycle diver’s exhaled air back into the breathing air mixture. Open-circuit regulators direct the diver’s exhalation back into the water.
There are two types of open-circuit scuba diving regulators: Diaphragm and Piston. (Actually there are four types: balanced / unbalanced diaphragm and balanced / unbalanced piston. Click here to learn more.)
Diaphragm and piston refers to the mechanism used to reduce tank pressure to an intermediate pressure. Let’s compare the two:
| Diaphragm | Piston |
| Pro: Better for cold water and dirty water diving
Con: More moving parts |
Pro: Fewer moving parts – easier to service
Con: Expensive due to cost to manufacture |
As you can see, there really isn’t much to compare because honestly, both work great. The deciding factor is based more on (1) the type of diving you will do, and (2) personal choice.
Recommended Scuba Diving Regulators – Diaphragm:
The Mares Proton 42 Metal regulator is one of the highest rated diaphragm regulators on the market today. It features four LP ports and two HP ports and they are arranged for complete flexibilty for placement of hoses. An all metal 2nd stage means years of performance yet it is light and compact.
The Mares Proton 42 regulator has arguably the best price / performance ratio of any regulator. Breathing requires very little effort. And if you are concerned about weight, due to metal construction, you will be pleasantly surprised at how light-weight this unit is in the water.
On the downside, we wish the hose was a little longer so as not to restrict head movement. But overall, the Mares Proton 42 Metal regulator is an almost perfect scuba diving regulator.
Click here to learn more about the Mares Proton 42 Metal Regulator.
Other Recommended Diaphragm Regulators:
Mares Abyss 42 Metal Regulator
Scubapro MK17 / G250V Regulator
AquaLung Legend ACD Supreme Regulator
Mares didn’t forget about the female scuba divers either. The Mares Proton 42 Metal She Dives regulator has all the same features mentioned previously but is one of the only regulators made exclusively for female divers.
Click here to learn more about the Mares Proton 42 Metal She Dives Regulator.
Recommended Scuba Diving Regulators – Piston:
We love bargains on scuba diving gear and a best buy at a great price describes the Oceanic Alpha 8 SP5 Piston Regulator. This low cost, lightweight regulator comes with four LP ports and one HP port. Stage one features a simple piston design and is constructed with durable chrome plated brass.
Buyers of the Oceanic Alpha 8 SP5 Piston Regulator have reported great performance in both salt and fresh water.
Many dive shops use the Oceanic Alpha 8 as rental units due to their low price and durability. The unit can be used with air or nitrox mixtures up to 40%.
Click here to learn more about the Oceanic Alpha 8 SP5 Piston Regulator.
Other Recommended Piston Regulators:
XS Scuba SeaAir Tri-Metal Regulator
Cressi XS2/AC2 Piston Regulator
