2011 Reg Tests: ScubaMax RG-1003
ScubaMax RG-1003
ScubaMax RG-1003
PRICE RANGE
UNDER $350
SPECS
» Ports 2HP, 4LP
» 1st Stage Balanced piston
» 2nd Stage Unbalanced
» MSRP $300
www.scubamax.us
PERFORMANCE» Simulator 3-4 (Good to Very Good)» Real World 3-4 (Good to Very Good)
FEATURES
The ScubaMax RG-1003 is a budget regulator with high-end features. The balanced-piston first stage has four low-pressure ports on a swivel assembly similar to more-expensive systems, and the second stage has a wide curved exhaust tee to reduce bubble interference. The ScubaMax didn’t have the best lab results, but breathing effort was consistent through all the test loops, and it outperformed some of the more expensive regulators. In our real-world testing, breathing effort was very good in normal diving conditions, but some of the divers reported damp breathing in head-down and head-up positions. The second stage clears easily with a strong breath, has an easy-to-use purge, and our testers found the venturi lever and cracking pressure knob solid and easy to use.
BOTTOM LINE
A well-priced reg that offers consistent performance for entry-level divers.
******PERFORMANCE SUMMARY**
ScubaMax RG-1003
PRICE RANGE
UNDER $350
SPECS
» Ports 2HP, 4LP
» 1st Stage Balanced piston
» 2nd Stage Unbalanced
» MSRP $300
www.scubamax.us
PERFORMANCE
» Simulator 3-4 (Good to Very Good)
» Real World 3-4 (Good to Very Good)
FEATURES
The ScubaMax RG-1003 is a budget regulator with high-end features. The balanced-piston first stage has four low-pressure ports on a swivel assembly similar to more-expensive systems, and the second stage has a wide curved exhaust tee to reduce bubble interference. The ScubaMax didn’t have the best lab results, but breathing effort was consistent through all the test loops, and it outperformed some of the more expensive regulators. In our real-world testing, breathing effort was very good in normal diving conditions, but some of the divers reported damp breathing in head-down and head-up positions. The second stage clears easily with a strong breath, has an easy-to-use purge, and our testers found the venturi lever and cracking pressure knob solid and easy to use.
BOTTOM LINE
A well-priced reg that offers consistent performance for entry-level divers.
PERFORMANCE SUMMARY
