Mares Voltrex with MR22 First Stage vs. Atomic Z2X or Z2 - Opinions Needed

[Chilkie]

I'm hoping that some of you experienced folks could enlighten a newbie. I'm trying to figure out regulator unit to purchase along with my package of other Scuba items. The Mares is on closeout here at ST for $265 while the Atomic Z2 runs $435 and the Z2X runs about $100 higher.
I have all of the typical new diver concerns...lack of experience....very limited budget, etc.
From what I have read both here and online the Atomic regs all breathe well, no matter what position you find yourself in (upside down, on your side, etc.). Unfortunately they are a bit on the pricey side and don't seem to get discounted much.
The Mares seems to be well respected and for the cost difference I thought that it might be a solid investment and equivalent to the Atomic.
Could any of you provide some insight into the strengths of these regs and offer advice and a recommendation? I would really appreciate it.
I want to save money, but I would rather spend a bit more if I am not going to get a quality reg. Since it will be keeping me alive I would like to purchase a quality item.
Thank you in advance for your help. I look forward to your responses.

Best Regards,

Chilkie

[Straegen]

I wouldn't get too caught up in this. Both regs are going to work just fine for you and are going to breath quite well. The Atomic is generally considered the better reg as far as I know, but the Mares has a good rep as well. I personally went with the Zeagle Flathead VI but that had a lot to do with the quality of customer service and online participation of the company (Scott Zeagle posts on this board as an example).

I don't think you will be unhappy with either reg honestly.

[TN Traveler]

The Voltrex 2nd is the same as the Abyss, but with a plastic cover. Uses the same parts as the Abyss internally. The MR22 is a well respected 1st stage that performs with any other high quality 1st. Mares has redesigned the MR22 to lighten it and paired it with the Voltrex 2nd to get rid of the remaining stock - it is a great buy. And don't worry about parts in the future - - the parts are the same as the V32, V16 and the new 22

Some people will tell you to get an adjustable 2nd stage, but I think it is just an added complication. Mares 2nd stages with no adjustment breathe as well as any reg out there. It breathes dry in any position and you can set the cracking pressure as low as any.

If you want to save some money on a great reg - get the Mares.

[CODMAN]

I'll second what TN said. Mares regs work flawlessly without any adjustment nobs! At any depth! The Voltrex is definetly the better deal. But whichever you choose, I'm sure you'll be happy with. Atomic has a solid reputation also.

Cheers!

[Chilkie]

Thanks for the advice gang. It was really helpful in helping me decide. I'm going with the Mares.
Now....what about a computer?????

[cruzan]

If you want a great little computer look at the mares m2 AAA batteries, nitrox compatible and best of all for a newbie (with limited funds) it's cheap.

[Chilkie]

Thanks for the replies. I bought a complete package of goodies from ST a month and a half ago and have already upgraded a few of the things (and relegated a couple of the items that came with the package to "backup" status).
I do my AOW class course next week. Yippee!!

[IaHammerhead]

Talk about cart before the horse. I was in the market to purchase a new regulator and spied the price of the Mares Voltrex. I went with the limited information on the description in selecting based on the approving reviews of the MR22. The regulator was purchased this afternoon and has already shipped. Just happened to drop in this evening and found this thread regarding the Voltrex. Very glad to see positive information regarding this system.
Funny thing is that I ordered this system for my family to give to me for birthday/fathers day. They didn't have a clue what to look for....so I am to be extremely surprised when I open this.
Thanks for the information puts my mind at ease knowing that I made a good selection based on the information that I had read at the time.

[cruzan]

Originally Posted by IaHammerhead

Talk about cart before the horse. I was in the market to purchase a new regulator and spied the price of the Mares Voltrex. I went with the limited information on the description in selecting based on the approving reviews of the MR22. The regulator was purchased this afternoon and has already shipped. Just happened to drop in this evening and found this thread regarding the Voltrex. Very glad to see positive information regarding this system.
Funny thing is that I ordered this system for my family to give to me for birthday/fathers day. They didn't have a clue what to look for....so I am to be extremely surprised when I open this.
Thanks for the information puts my mind at ease knowing that I made a good selection based on the information that I had read at the time.

My husband received his not long ago and so far loves it. By the way Larry and Joe stop selling him regs how many backups/travel/dirty water regs does one person need.