$800 is a bit low for decent new equipment. I would expect closer to $1200 for mid-quality CURRENT PRODUCTION equipment. It really depends on where you will dive. If you are strictly warm water shallow diver, a less expensive reg will work for you. If you might go tech, or cold or deep, you will want a better reg. If you get gauges, don't spend too much on them, because if you dive frequently, you will probably find yourself getting a computer, which will drive up the cost of the package.
The hardest thing when buying on a budget is trying to avoid the need to upgrade in the future when your skills/desires outpace the 'starter' equipment you bought.
The hardest thing when buying on a budget is trying to avoid the need to upgrade in the future when your skills/desires outpace the 'starter' equipment you bought.
