MScorpa
Registered
Let me start by saying I am not side mount trained. I test dove this system over the weekend. I have to say the whole rig is high quality, well make, functional and comfortable. It is much better execuated than rigs like Hollis SMS50, and obviously more streamline than full size side mount setup. For single tank, I think the manifold is a very good idea. It retains long hose donatable feature of hogarthian style diving. Even for double tank, I think it is a nice idea. However, I also often heard seasoned side mount diver dislike the manifold implementation. I want to know in what aspect do you see this implementation has issue, and under what kind of failure mode would it fall apart. In other word, what is the downside here. I don't see it at all after the test dives.
So has this thread helped answer your questions? Sidemount divers are generally either for or against the z-system, there's really no in between. I would suggest to try diving conventional sidemount with an instructor and see how you like it, then make your own educated decision on which system suits your personal needs and abilities. Maybe practice some air sharing drills at the same time. There is no substitute for first-hand experience!