Title: Regulator Features - The Scuba Doctor
Headings: Regulator Features
Regulator Features
Advice on choosing the right scuba regulator for you.
General Scuba Regulator Guidelines
Free Assembly
Scuba Regulator Choices
DIN vs Yoke (A-Clamp) Regulators
Balanced/Unbalanced Regulators
Cold Water Kit
Piston vs Diaphragm Regulators
Overbalanced Regulators
Scuba Regulator Ports
Nitrox Compatible Regulators
Compact Second Stage Regulators
Side Vented Second Stage Regulators

Content: Plus, if you do end up in a location where they only have valves with Yoke fittings, you can simply use a DIN to Yoke Adaptor to quickly changeover. Balanced/Unbalanced Regulators
Simply put, a balanced regulator is always a preferable option. Most entry level regulators are unbalanced whereas the next model up is generally balanced. A balanced first stage regulator offers consistent air flow regardless of depth and tank pressure. An unbalanced regulator will become harder to breathe from as depth increases and or tank pressure decreases. That said, modern unbalanced regulators perform very well and the advantage of an unbalanced regulator is that annual service costs are lower as they tend have few moving parts. This does in turn make them exceptionally reliable as are all modern regulators, regardless of type. However, balanced regulators offer consistent high air flow to the second stages making breathing resistance less and therefore breathing easier. Cold Water Kit
The definition of cold water diving is in water less than 10 degrees centigrade, which can often occur during Melbourne's winter. There are markings to help you identify regulators suitable for cold water diving such as EN250 but most will say whether they are cold water compatible or environmental sealed in the descriptions.