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>> I'm in the market for a new reg, too. I've heard from several people >> (2 instructors, one shop owner) that the Abyss is "The Best Reg" >> available. I'm sure there are those who would take some issue with >> that, but the fact remains that of all the people I've talked to who >> have expressed an opinion on the Abyss, all like it bunches. > >Every regulator a shop owner is trying to sell you is the "Best Reg". >Same goes for instructors who work for shops, or get a commission. Why is everyone always searching for the "best reg" - as if there one, and only one, clearly supreme reg! The best reg is the reg that works when you need it. All these "best reg" posters should realize that buying/owning/using a reg is a two part process; actually buying it, and keeping it going. Look at the guy and the shop who's trying to sell you the reg. Are you going to trust them with your life? If not, leave. It doesn't matter how good the reg if you don't trust the guy working on it. I'd take good reg with great support over a great one with lousy support - listen to all the Poseiden stories! A Best reg doesn't do you any good if it's sitting in the shop. Then ask about the routine servicing cost. That reg. is going to cost you during it's lifetime several times its purchase price in servicing costs. Some manufacturers charge outrageously for parts, and have a mile long "must replace list" they stick you for each annual. But then, you may decide they're worth it. But it's something you should know up front. Do you service your regulator regularly, or only when something goes wrong? Regs. have different tolerances for neglect. Get one that suits your style. Are you going want to run 02 through it? What's the availabity of 02 clean kits for it? Ditto ice. Are you ever going to want to service it yourself (this shameful practice exists, i'm told)? If so,find out what parts cost, whether they'll even sell parts to you, and whether they'll let you take a peek at their manuals when you need to (this is also a good way to find out whether they actually have the manufacturers service info!). And how long has the shop been carrying the line? Is other service available locally when the shop folds or you get mad at it? Do all this, then say the hell with it and buy a good used Mk.5 (*:
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