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: DIN fitting regulators are by far a safer coupling with the regulator actually screwing into the tank valve, trapping the high pressure o-ring so it cannot extrude like it occasionally (and spectacularly) does with an A-Clamp fitting. There are two types of DIN fitting – DIN200 and DIN300 – with DIN200 having 7 threads suitable for use with 232bar/3000psi cylinders and DIN300 with 9 threads suitable for 300bar/4500psi cylinders. Although a DIN300 fitting will attach to a DIN200 valve this is not recommended. We use and recommend DIN fitting first stage regulators. They're safer and lighter for travel. 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.