Some thoughts on the Oceanic Alpha 8 CDX5

[ScubaSam]

So I bought the Alpha 8/CDX5 for my first reg set along with a Genesis React Pro Inline Computer. Maybe it was the fact that it was a lower end priced unit but I was not really in love with the second stage. The first seemed fine, since at the end of the day I was able to breathe. But on a 20-30 foot dive for 45 minutes the second almost popped out of my mouth once or twice, and it definitely gave me some jaw fatigue. It also breathed a but wet while I was upside down, but I guess that is normal. I was also not really pleased that there is no air flow adjustment.

The question is, are there replacement parts I can buy to make the mouth piece more comfortable? Is the unit good enough to enjoy many dives with? Does the fact that it does not have any adjustments all in my head?

I live in South Florida and will primarily dive here and further South, no cold water diving, but I do plan on going down to 100-140 feet with time.

So do I keep the setup? Or spend more money and try something else?

Thanks,

Scuba Sam

[Straegen]

They do make comfortable mouth pieces:

Comfort Cushion Mouthpiece reviews and discounts, Innovative Scuba Concepts

or for the higher end:

Sea Cure Mouthpiece reviews and discounts, SeaCure

Even though this is an entry level reg, it should breath fairly well even at depth. I would suggest having it serviced. I think its WOB is around 1.3 which isn't a great number especially by comparison to newer regs but it is a completely fine number.

[bottomdweller]

I bought one of the Seacure mouthpieces for my Cheapo reg & it is great.
No more jaw fatigue, I would highly recomend this mouthpiece.

[rustyshakelford]

seacure is great like the others have mentioned. I have the alpha 8 also and use it for my pony bottle and i like it alright!

brett

[nrembis]

switching to a miflex hose is another option besides the mouthpiece.