A regulator is the most important component of a diver’s rig. Luckily, there are plenty of models for you to choose from. You just need to know what kind of diver you are, and match your new reg to your diving style, skill level, and aspirations.

›› Built with lightweight components and anti-freeze materials for optimal cold-water performance
›› First stage has a five LP-port rotating turret
›› Available in four versions to match a variety of budgets and diving styles

Whether you’re diving in a current, upside down or deep, this reg breathes flawlessly. Each version offers its own style, but they all share awesome performance.
scubapro.com, $729; $959 Black tech; $1,099 anniversary edition; $1,875 titanium

"Scubapro's MK25/S600 is in a class of its own. This high-octane reg had earned a sterling reputation as a dry, easy breather in all positions, and its ability to deliver muscle-reg-level performance in extreme diving conditions is unmatched."

›› Dry-sealed first stage protects internal components from corrosion and freezing for longer life
›› Five-port LP turret swivels 360 degrees to maximize options for hose routing
›› Smart-demand lever relieves pressure on second-stage valve seat between dives

The SR2 is a major player in the high-performance arena, capable of delivering lots of gas regardless of depth or breathing rate. It breathes dry and effortlessly in all positions, and has a great purge and multifunction user control.
sherwoodscuba.com, $715

›› Smaller ComfoBite mouthpiece and lighter second stage help reduce jaw fatigue
›› Master Breathing System acts as a venturi adjustment plus regulates breathing resistance
›› Twilight color accents on the second stage match aqua lung’s line of gear designed for women

This might be the prettiest reg on the boat, and it’s also pure Legend. Performance-wise, it’s an easy-breathing reg, no matter which position you find yourself in. it also breathes dry, clears effortlessly and offers some impressive reserve capacity.
aqualung.com, $745

›› New first stage features an optional fifth LP port along with improved gas flow and balancing
›› Overbalanced design allows medium-pressure air to increase at a rate faster than ambient pressure for better performance
›› Two-stage progressive purge lets you regulate the amount of purge force

The flagship reg in Apeks’ XTX line, the 200 is a proven performer, offering smooth and dry breathing in all positions and great user adjustments. It comes with a choice of exhaust tees and a ComfoBite mouthpiece.
aqualung.com, $745

›› First stage anti-freeze system protects internal parts with ice-repellent coatings
›› Dry ambient-chamber system keeps water and contaminants out
›› A high-flow second-stage exhaust valve reduces exhalation effort for increased breathing comfort

Designed for cold water and harsh environments, this is an ideal system for divers who push the limits. Deep depths and aggressive breathing rates don’t seem to bother the MK17/G260. Its left/right hose attachment option makes it well suited for tec diving too.
scubapro.com, $679

›› Yoke version weighs in at 1.7 pounds, making it the lightest full-size regulator in this group
›› Factory-sealed first stage prevents outside contamination and enhances cold-water performance
›› Includes three-year, 300-dive service-interval lifetime warranty, plus a deluxe, padded travel bag

Without a doubt, if you want the ultimate in performance and style, you can’t get any better than the T3. Precision machined from solid titanium billet, this reg is good-looking, feather light and an incredibly smooth breather.
atomicaquatics.com, $1,699

›› First-stage port positioning provides kink-free routing of hoses
›› lighter second stage reduces jaw fatigue
›› high-flex braided hose allows for tighter packing when traveling

The X-5 M’s compact, polished chrome first stage and functional second stage combine to offer a comfortable breather that delivers good airflow at an even sweeter price.
seacsub.com, $345

›› T-shaped design reduces the first stage’s profile when on a tank
›› Spring chamber is environmentally sealed
›› Reg comes with a lifetime warranty on service parts

The Oasis’ second stage has moisture retention vanes that collect vapor from exhaled air and return it to the diver on inhalation. This is a boon to divers who have “dry mouth” when breathing compressed gas.
sherwoodscuba.com, $460

›› Two high-flow LP ports increase gas-moving efficiency at depth
›› Easy-adjust venturi-initiated vacuum assist controls surface free-flows
›› Reversible hose attachment allows for use as a primary second stage or an octo

This modernized version of a classic is reliable and an outstanding breather at virtually any depth. the mK11/r195 offers a lot of performance for your money.
scubapro.com, $475

›› Dry-sealed first stage uses no liquids or gels that can leak or add to service costs
›› Teflon-coated valve body and heat-retention vane minimize the chances of second stage freeze-ups
›› Large diaphragm and exhaust valve work in concert to minimize breathing effort

The Blizzard has been around for more than three decades, and has earned a solid reputation for reliability and for being easy to service. Designed for cold-water diving, this newest version is a sweet breather.
sherwoodscuba.com, $460

›› Polished-chrome fixed first stage offers seven LP ports and comes in sealed or unsealed versions
›› Black, specially coated second-stage swivel looks great and reduces jaw fatigue
›› A choice of six optional color kits let you personalize the reg quickly and easily

it might not be as sexy as its all-titanium cousin, but the Z3 is an easy, reliable breather with an efficient breathing- resistance knob, second-stage swivel and dual-compound mouthpiece.
atomicaquatics.com, $529 ($569 with sealed first stage)

›› First stage offers a rotating lp port turret with a new fifth LP port mounted on top
›› Diver changeable exhaust system offers choice of compact or full-size exhaust tees
›› Dry-sealed environmental kit makes it a good choice for cold-water diving

For Apeks aficionados on a budget, the XTX50, with its swivel-turret first stage, delivers near identical performance and offers many of the same features as the XTX200, like left/right reversibility, efficient user adjustments, choice of exhaust tees, and ComfoBite mouthpiece.
aqualung.com, $595