Aqualung Core/Helix vs ScubaPro MK11

[nimapeace]

My LDS is offering an (ex-rental but rebuilt) AL Core (rebranded Helix) reg+octo combo for a very decent price.

Until this point I was considering a SP MK11/c370+r095 combo or a similar offering from SP.

Will the Aqualung reg breathe significantly worse than the C370/MK11 combo? The AL is about 30% cheaper than the SP setup I'm looking at. Is it worth the extra $$?

What about the MK2 out of interest (I know its a piston but price is more comparable)? I dive cold water if that matters (10C)

 

[lowwall]

A used AL Core should be closer to half the price of the SP combo. Unless money is really tight, I wouldn't bother.

The Mk2 will be fine in 10C. If it's 30% less than the Mk11, I'd seriously consider it.

What are the actual prices and all the included second stages?

 

[BoltSnap]

I would go the SP route and not give the AL any consideration.

 

[nimapeace]

I’m also leaning toward the SP.

535 for AL Core + Calypso secondary + i300c console.

780 for MK11/c370/r095/spg or 650 for MK2e/s270/r095/spg (All prices include tax). There’s also used which I’m not afraid of but for the low end the initial service is a big chunk of the price + the dealers have good sales now.

 

[Pressurehead]

780 for MK11/c370/r095/spg

You guys a really being 'screwed over' for SP gear in the US
That combo brand new is US $250 cheaper here.

Edit: Forgot the SPG and hose, still US $41 cheaper.

 

[lowwall]

Ok, so the AL includes a decent nitrox computer. That makes the deal a lot more reasonable if you don't already have one and weren't planning on buying something fancier. There is a wrist mount available for the i300c for $40 if you want to dump the console. Aqua Lung i100, i300, i300C Bungee Wrist Mount Scuba Dive Computer NEW #2836 | eBay .

Wait, no octopus? If that's the case, then it's not really a bargain.

If you want an idea of current prices and factory authorized deals, check out scuba.com. The Mk11/C370/R095 is currently $643. Add an SPG and sales tax and your LDS price is about right.

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[buddhasummer]

W

I would go the SP route and not give the AL any consideration.

Why?

 

[buddhasummer]

I prefer the Core/Helix first stage but C370 second stage all the way. In fact that's the combo I've been diving of late, well, Titan LX Supreme actually but same same.

 

[BoltSnap]

W

Why?

I wouldn't buy anything AL now.

 

[buddhasummer]

I got that but why?