Your regulator is the most important component of your diving equipment. It delivers the air your need to breathe. It is your life support system.
Scuba regulators are designed to reduce the high-pressure air from the scuba cylinder to a level where the diver can breathe comfortably and safely. Jacques Cousteau and Emile Gagnan developed the original regulator, the aqua lung. It was a twin-hose system that reduced the pressure in a single stage connected to a cylinder.
These days, regulators are a single-hose design(Australian Invention)and the pressure is reduced in two stages. The FIRST STAGE reduces pressure from the cylinder down to near 10bar, then the SECOND STAGE delivers air on demand. (That's why the second stage is sometimes called the demand valve.)
WANT TO KNOW MORE?
On the Aquanaut website, www.aquanaut.com.au informative and valuable facts are provided regarding all aspects of consideration for regulator selection. These important topics include:
What to Look for in a Regulator
How is Performance Measured?
Buyer Beware
Why Choose Apeks
Click the link below to download the Aquanaut selection guide, especially designed to help you choose the right breathing equipment for you and your individual type of diving.
The Legend LX ACD is a superbly engineered regulator boasting outstanding features, exceptional performance and stylish good looks.
Jacques Cousteau invented the very first aqualung and with it the sport of scuba diving was born. Sixty years on, the release of the Legend series represents the ultimate refinement of Cousteau's invention. The Legend LX ACD combines exceptional ease of breathing, ease of service, reliability and stunning looks that give testament to the quality that lies beneath a masterpiece of modern engineering. Legendary performance from Aqua Lung: a tradition for 60 years.
Kronos RegulatorsRRP $GRANT'S PRICE $
Aqua Lung's King of Titans: Kronos is the First Regulator with Lateral Deflector and Combined Adjuster Regulator deflects bubbles to the side, which improves visibility and versatility.
The Kronos is a new regulator that offers innovative solutions to common frustrations found on traditional regulators. At first glance, you'll notice the asymmetric Side-X exhaust system that gets the bubbles out of your field of view. In addition, fine-tuning is simplified by combining the venturi control with the breathing resistance knob into one Dual Cam controller.
* Compatible with EAN 40 right out of the box * Din adapter Option
Features
New asymmetrical Side-X exhaust system (pat. pend.) routes bubbles out of your viewing area
Even though the exhaust bubbles are routed out the side, the exhaust valve remains in the traditional location providing consistent, dry exhalation
Exhaled breath passes over the second stage valve effectively warming it, thereby making it resistant to freezing
The venturi control and breathing resistance knob have been integrated into one Dual Cam controller (pat. pend.). Divers can now achieve ideal settings with less to think about
Aqua Lung's Auto-Closure Device ACD (pat. pend.) seals water out of the first stage when the regulator is removed from the cylinder
The first stage is a balanced diaphragm design coupled with a pneumatically balanced second stage
Two HP ports and four MP ports provide the diver with many options
Comes with a Comfo-bite mouthpiece, a standard spare mouthpiece and a removable mouthpiece clamp
Compatible with EAN 40 new, out of the box
Mikron RegulatorsRRP $995GRANT'S PRICE $895
DIN ADAPTER: RRP $169 GRANT'S PRICE: $149
*** AVAILABLE IN MALE AND FEMALE MODELS ***
Aqua Lung has once again raised the bar on regulator design with the release of Mikron - the smallest and lightest weight regulator on the market today. Weighing in at just 740g (din) and 890g (yoke), the traveling diver will benefit tremendously. Even more amazing is that performance is not sacrificed by the extreme compactness of the regulator. Its balanced first and second stages produce exceptional breathing performance.
Specifications
·Compact dimensions and low weight blend comfort with a unique diving experience
·A new, braided hose, weighing less than 141 grams, provides flexibility, comfort and excellent packability
·The pink vanilla version features a new, smaller Comfo-bite mouthpiece designed for smaller mouths. If you are one of those that doesnt care for the Comfo-bites silicone bridge which fits across the upper palate, it can now be detached
·Ports: The first stage is a balanced diaphragm type that sports one HP port (7/16) and 4 MP ports (3/8)
·Second Stage: The second stage is pneumatically balanced to provide top performance
·Second Stage: The second stage has an adjustment knob that allows the diver to optimize the opening effort. In the Mini position, the opening effort is increased, which is ideal for avoiding free flows. In the Maxi position, the inhalation effort is reduced, reducing the work of breathing
·Colours: The Mikron is available in two colors including the new pink vanilla that matches the new Pearl i3 BC
·The reduced size and weight makes the Mikron the ideal choice for all divers and all types of diving.
Titan LX RegulatorsRRP $895GRANT'S PRICE $799
DIN ADAPTER: RRP $169 GRANT'S PRICE: $149
*** NEW MODEL AVAILABLE IN 2009 ***
The Titan LX represents high-end performance at a mid-range price. In the last US Navy test the two regulators that ranked the highest, both from Aqua Lung, scored an impressive 1.4 joules effort at 62 metres. The Titan LX clocks in with the incredible result of less than 1.16 joules - at the increased depth of 80 metres! The Titan LX guarantees performance at an affordable price.
Titan LX Adj RegulatorsRRP $GRANT'S PRICE $
DIN ADAPTER: RRP $169 GRANT'S PRICE: $149
The Titan LX represents high-end performance at a mid-range price and now with an Adjustable Second Stage. In the last US Navy test the two regulators that ranked the highest, both from Aqua Lung, scored an impressive 1.4 joules effort at 62 metres. The Titan LX clocks in with the incredible result of less than 1.16 joules - at the increased depth of 80 metres! The Titan LX guarantees performance at an affordable price.
Titan XLC RegulatorsRRP $745GRANT'S PRICE $670
DIN ADAPTER: RRP $169 GRANT'S PRICE: $149
More divers are breathing through the XLC second stage than any other regulator in the world. Its flawless exterior houses a level of engineering that its competitors cannot hope to match. A combination of outstanding workmanship and superior design promises a lifetime of outstanding performance under even the most adverse diving conditions.
Titan Micra Adj RegulatorsRRP $GRANT'S PRICE $
DIN ADAPTER: RRP $169 GRANT'S PRICE: $149
The ultimate in small lightweight regulators. Ideal for the travelling diver, or those requiring high performance in a small package.
Mistral RegulatorsRRP $GRANT'S PRICE $
DIN ADAPTER: RRP $169 GRANT'S PRICE: $149
The new Mistral is a modern version of the original double hose regulator invented by Aqua Lung founder Jacques Cousteau and Emille Gagnan in 1943.
Modern single hose regulators release exhalation bubbles directly from the mouthpiece in front of the diver. These bubbles can obstruct the diver's view and have long been a complaint with underwater photographers. Double hose regulators have the unique advantage of releasing the diver's exhaust bubbles behind the diver's head and not obstructing the field of vision. Double hose regulators also perform very well in icy waters where single hose designs could freeze up and quit working. This is because the diver's humid exhalation doesn't pass over the moving parts of the regulator, which could cause ice crystals to form.
The Mistral offers all the benefits of the original double hose regulators, combined with the developments and refinements of modern regulator technology. Incorporating a time proven dry sealed first stage, a unique completely sealed second stage, a high pressure port and multiple low pressure ports, the Mistral offers all the benefits and reliability of modern regulators. The Aqua Lung Mistral is also the first modern double hose regulator to pass the European EN 250 breathing performance tests.
The Mistral's unique double hose design will appeal to underwater photographers, videographers, ice divers, commercial divers, military divers, search and rescue divers, scientific divers, and anybody nostalgic for the 'good ol' diving days."
Compatible with EAN 40 right out of the box
Available in either DIN or Yoke configurations
Features
Bubbles exhaust behind the diver - No more bubble interference - great for photographers
Superior resistance to freeze-up - The second stage is not exposed to exhalation humidity
Dry Sealed first stage and second stage - Makes this the ideal regulator for extreme cold or polluted environments
Breathing performance is better than old style double hose regulators - The benefits of a double hose regulator with better breathing characteristics
While the exquisite corals and plentiful marine life of shallow water suits the majority of divers, some experienced divers prefer diving to considerable depths, either to explore hauntingly beautiful wrecks, or simply for the sheer exhilaration of going where nobody has been before. If you're considering diving to greater depths, then you should consider Apeks. Regarded as the best regulator for diving deep, Apeks has proved itself many times over. Case in point: diving legend John Bennett recently broke a deep-diving record by diving to 308 metres using Apeks regulators. "They worked a dream", Bennett said afterwards. It's no surprise why. Apeks have invested heavily in research and development.
One major investment, the ANSTI breathing simulator is capable of simulating a dive of 80 metres with two-degree Celsius water temperature and a breathing rate of 35 breaths/min. It is an astonishing regulator design tool.
Obviously performance is one of the most important considerations when purchasing your regulator. Apeks are dedicated to manufacturing regulators that give high performance in the most demanding conditions, which makes them an excellent choice for professional, 'tech' and serious recreational divers who like to push the limits. So if you want to go deep, Apeks is the choice. ATX200 1st & 2nd Stage.
Tek3 Regulator SetRRP $2495GRANT'S PRICE $2199
***Includes Left and Right DIN First Stages and 2 Second Stage Regulators***
***Includes Regulator Bag***
TECHNICALLY ADVANCED Apeks have just launched the new Tek3 1st stage regulators designed for use with twin cylinder configuration. The system benefits from streamlined hose configuration with little chance of accidental snagging and also impoves ease of access to cylinder valves. Each first stage has 3 medium pressure ports and one high-pressure port. They are balanced, cold water compatible and extremely robust. The Tek 3 looks very stylish as well.
The main picture above details the Tek3 1st stages mounted on a manifold system. You can see how the hoses are neatly tucked away - both high pressure and medium pressure hoses. this is possible as all hoses are mounted on one side of the 1st stage and there is a 1st stage designed specifically for the left and one for the right.
Another clear benefit for divers is the ease of access to cylinder valve knobs. Vitally important during dives. The Tek3 1st stages have been designed and tested for use with any Apeks cold water second stages, the choice is yours. The new Tek3 is a leap forward for extended range diving, wreck diving, cave diving, in fact any diving where twin cylinder configuration use is preferred.
XTX 200 Status RegulatorRRP $1795GRANT'S PRICE $1599
***Same Price for DIN or Yolk***
Status gives divers peace of mind by letting them know that their regulator is safe for a dive and when it needs servicing. Like the warning light on a car's dashboard, Status incorporates micro-electronics to review the condition of your scuba regulator prior to a dive. This important safety feature, the first in the industry, gives divers the assurance that their regulator is able to deliver life-sustaining air properly.
The Status internal micro-electronic computer continually assesses this vital air pressure and the condition of your equipment utilising state-of-the-art electronics and will actually inform divers if there is something wrong. It also monitors both usage and time visibly informing you when your regulator is due for service. Now, for the first time ever, divers know that their first stage air supply is OK just by looking at their regulator.
*The limited lifetime warranty period offered on Apeks regulators does not cover the electronic components
Identical to the XTX200 except for model number decal
Nitrox versions available
XTX 200 RegulatorRRP $1345GRANT'S PRICE $1199
***Same Price for DIN or Yolk***
The XTX200 model uses the proven 'FSR' type first stage as found on the ATX200. This XTX200 first stage features a new bright chrome finish. The second stage, although shipped in a standard right-hand configuration, can be reversed into a left-hand configuration by your authorized technician.
Available in either DIN or Yoke configurations
Compatible to EAN 40 right out of the box
Optional DIN to Yoke converter and Free Flow Control device, which can isolate a free-flowing 2nd stage
Identical to the XTX100 except for model number decal
Nitrox versions available
Apeks is a world leader in high performance quality diving equipment. The Tungsten, our latest regulator, uses the high spec of our ATX200 and protects the unit with a hard, resilient, durable PVD coating, high tec grades of titanium, zirconium and chromium as used on the highly successful limited edition Apeks Black Pearl. Apeks believe when you buy the best, it should last, and PVD gives your Tungsten the protection it deserves.
Trial by Cold
The first test was to completely freeze it. This was to simulate coming to the surface with the regulator full of water with a wind chill of minus 18oC. The first stage was sealed but the second stage was completely flooded. Once thawed, they reassembled it and took it for a quick dive. The regulator was still working properly. Pass
Trial by Abrasion
When stacked in a cylinder rack, other equipment or indeed the sides of the rack itself can rub against your regulator. So they gave the valve a good scraping against some scaffolding poles. There were some small marks left on the side, but the coating remained intact. Pass
Trial by Salt Water
At some stage, small damaging droplets of water will enter your regulator. Not content with a few droplets, they remove all the port plugs and submerge the Tungsten at the bottom of the Penzance harbour for 12 hours. They then thoroughly washed it in fresh water, dried it and then took it for a dive. It breathed as sweetly as the first dive. Pass
Trial by Heat
Behind a glass port hole on a Sudanese live-aboard, the temperature can reach as high as 60oC. So they baked the regulator in an oven for eight hours at 65oC. They allowed the Tungsten ATX200 to return to ambient temperature attached it to a cylinder and took it for a quick dive. It worked. Pass
Trial by Crushing
It happens to all of us. You get all your gear ready beside the RIB then get distracted. The next thing you hear is the sound of the trailer wheels bouncing over your regulator. So they ran over it with a 5.3m RIB sitting on a trailer. The result was a few minor scratches but other wise it was okay. Pass
Trial by Depth
After they had subjected the Tungsten ATX200 to all of the above tests, they finally took it out on a deep dive to 50m to see how it performed. Did they require the back up regulator? No, the Tungsten ATX200 performed flawlessly. Pass
XTX 50, 40 and 20 Regulator***XTX 50 Shown***
XTX 50 RRP $1095GRANT'S PRICE $980
XTX 40 RRP $945GRANT'S PRICE $850
XTX 20 RRP $845GRANT'S PRICE $760
***Same Price for DIN or Yolk***
Available in either DIN or Yoke configurations
Compatible to EAN 40 right out of the box
Optional Free Flow Control device, which can isolate a free-flowing 2nd stage
The Airsource 3 combines a high-performance second stage with a power inflator. By eliminating the need for a traditional octopus, the diver can streamline his entire system. In addition, unlike a traditional octopus that can drag in the sand or damage coral, you'll take comfort knowing that the Airsource 3 is right in front of you ready to deliver life saving air in a moment's notice.
Several new features have been added to this latest version of Airsource to make it the most desirable of all breathable inflators.
The second stage valve is pneumatically balanced resulting in unparalleled performance and consistent breathing from start of dive to end. Ideal for use with over-balanced first stages.
Redesigned “Trim Grip” in the middle of the corrugated hose allows diver to dump air from BC during ascent without removing the Airsource from the mouth. Using a clever bayonet mount, the Airsource quickly and easily separates from the BC at the “Trim Grip”. This allows the Airsource to remain with the diver’s complete regulator for packing and traveling.
Rather than use a traditional quick disconnect fitting, the Airsource is connected via a hose like your primary second stage. This allows better flow and better performance. It also prevents particulate matter and moisture from entering the second stage.
A specialized cut-off valve allows the diver to quickly and easily shut off air to the unit should there ever be a malfunction.
Ergonomic design optimizes button placement for ease of use.
Soft-touch purge cover is located on the bottom so it won’t be inadvertently activated in strong currents
Low-profile rapid-exhaust valve is activated by pulling on the “Trim Grip” or the lower unit.
Corrugated hose has clips and recessed areas to accommodate the lp hose.
Easier to service than it’s predecessor.
AIRSOURCE III COMPLETE: RRP $695GRANT'S PRICE $625
AIRSOURCE III INSTALLED: RRP $545GRANT'S PRICE $485
Combining a high-performance, pneumatically balanced, second stage with a power inflator, the Airsource 3 eliminates the need for a traditional octopus so divers can effortlessly streamline their entire system. Unlike a traditional octopus that can drag in the sand or damage coral, the Airsource 3 is located in front of the diver to deliver life saving air in a moments notice.
The innovative Airsource 3 is directly plumbed to the air supply without the use of a traditional quick disconnect fitting. This allows better flow and better performance as a quick disconnect is a performance inhibitor. In the rare event of a freeflow or an auto-inflate situation, the diver can stop the air flow to the Airsource 3 by way of a simple cut-off valve. This is much safer and easier than trying to disconnect the air supply underwater with gloved hands.
The Trim Grip is a unique feature found halfway down the corrugated hose. It offers an alternative way to dump air from a BC while the Airsource 3 remains in the divers mouth. When it is time to disassemble the scuba rig, the Airsource 3 detaches in the middle of the corrugated hose at the Trim Grip. This allows the unit to be stored with the regulator.
Combining a high-performance, pneumatically balanced, second stage with a power inflator.
With more than 10 different Alternate Air Source / Octopus to choose from Mudgee Dive and Travel have your needs covered. To view the entire range click on the following link: www.aquanaut.com.au/catalogue/category_intro.php/2/2/19
AQUALUNG
THE FREE FLOW CONTROL DEVICE FOR ALL REGULATORS
RRP $126.50GRANT'S PRICE $110
A high quality device designed to stop free flowing.
Regulators not designed for cold water use are especially prone to freezing. Our simple yet extremely effective Freeflow Control Device contributes a significant advance in diver safety. In the event of 2nd stage freezing, freeflow can cause catastrophic loss of air.
With the FCD fitted to your regulator, a simple sliding action allows the diver to isolate the freeflowing 2nd stage and continue the dive using a secondary air source or alternatively, the diver can manually control the air flow allowing a safe ascent to the surface.
Designed to fit all regulators that use the standard 9/16" UNF hose fitting.
ABS Octopus
RRP $295 GRANT'S PRICE $265
The New ABS Octopus combines excellent breathing performance with the benefits of a low profile body style.
Features
Exceeds CE breathing requirements for regulators
Versatile design allows proper function when right side up or upside down
Unique 120 degree angle between hose and mouthpiece: This Aqua Lung innovation is ideal for giving your octopus to a buddy - will work in either right hand or left hand positions. No more sharp bends in the hose or upside down octopuses in the mouth
Custom quick-release mounting clip keeps the ABS properly located on the body at all times
39" yellow hose easily distinguishes your ABS hose from your primary hose. This high visibility hose is easily spotted in case of an out-of-air emergency
XLC Octopus
RRP $275GRANT'S PRICE $245
A mid-sized, feature-rich alternate air source
Features
The XLC Octopus is fitted with adjustable venturi.
Easily identified by its yellow cover.
Low profile exhaust cover/tee.
High visibility yellow. 39" hose.
Nitrox compatible version also available
MICRON Octopus
RRP $395GRANT'S PRICE $349
Features
The Mikron Octopus is pneumatically balanced to provide top performance
It has an adjustment knob that allows the diver to optimize the opening effort. In the Mini position, the opening effort is increased, which is ideal for avoiding free flows. In the Maxi position, the inhalation effort is reduced, reducing the work of breathing
The reduced size and weight makes the Mikron the ideal choice for children and young adults
39 inch yellow hose
OTHER AQUALUNG OCTOPUS
LEGEND OctopusRRP $425 GRANT'S PRICE $380
GALACIA OctopusRRP $495 GRANT'S PRICE $430
LX OctopusRRP $395 GRANT'S PRICE $349
APEKS
XTX 40 Octopus RRP $445 GRANT'S PRICE $390
The 'heart' of your diving equipment and your most important choice when assembling your diving system. There are many regulators on the market and the selection may seem daunting. Apeks makes the decision easier. As regulator specialists we are dedicated to manufacturing regulators that give reliable high performance in the most demanding situations - perfect for professional and 'tech' divers and the only choice for serious recreational divers.
The XTX40 regulator incorporates a new two-shot high strength plastic front cover, improving the durability of the most vulnerable part of the demand valve. The new ergonomic Venturi lever of the XTX40 has been designed to reduce the amount of grit ingress. A new swivel hose connection is available at an extra cost. This allows the demand valve end of the hose connection to rotate and pivot, providing a more comfortable fit. A new silicone exhaust valve has been used on the XTX40 regulator improving breathing performance.
Features
Integrated venturi control
Pneumatically balanced valve design
Suitable for cold water use
Bright Chrome Finish
Right or Left hand hose configuration
Two shot plastic front cover
Changeable Exhaust Tees (DCE, Diver Changeable Exhaust) (only one set supplied)
New Optional Extra Hose Swivel connection
Nitrox and Octopus versions available
Egress Octopus
Egress means way out, exit, escape - the perfect description for an ideal octopus. The Apeks Egress has been designed as a left and right hand second stage regulator perfect for octopus use and emergency buddy breathing situations. It is, however, also entirely suitable as a left and right handed primary second stage compatible with any Apeks first stage.
If used with an unsealed first stage then it is only recommended for warm waters, but is suitable for cold water diving when used with any Apeks environmentally sealed first stage. The Egress second stage is a quality, high performance piece of equipment you would expect from Apeks but at a remarkable price.
Features
Can be used either way up
Can be routed over either shoulder
Low profile ensures less drag in water and keeps it close to the body and out of the way
Bright colours ensure visibility in panic situations
Rubber feel helps you get hold of it easily in panic situations