Scubapro balanced adjustable 156

[Open Ocean Diver]

Thanks Rob!
If understood it right, the new number '156' was introduced, because the BA got its CE Certification in that year.
So true '156's could have a CE stamp or sticker somewhere on the case.
Apart from that the case and the exhaust tee is supposed to be a bit different to the old '150s'
I own about ten '109er', some converted, but only two original 'BAs'. I can't find any CE stamp on these, but maybe someone else here can on his.......
Cannot be too many since the production was stopped in 1998, but I'd like to see one.....

Mine doesn’t have CE stamp or sticker, any other way to know if I have the CE tested and approved unit?

 

[rhwestfall]

So, is it a 109 (duro poppet, unbalanced second), or a 109 upgraded to a 156 (s-wing poppet which is balanced)?

 

[Open Ocean Diver]

So, is it a 109 (duro poppet, unbalanced second), or a 109 upgraded to a 156 (s-wing poppet which is balanced)?

description from seller:
This is the regulator that set the standard for all balanced second stages ... If you would like a close to brand new Scubapro "156" this is the one to buy, all chrome perfect inside and out,
just plug it into your first stage and go diving,,,new 0 rings in the hose. Stainless steel Hex screws standard with this model. Updated with a new S series white wing poppet and seat, all new 0-rings. This one has the covered Silver adjustable orifice. Breathing out of this regulator is effortless. If you thought you would like to buy a brand new one, buy this one, close as you will ever come. All new 0-ringsincluding the hose.

 

[rhwestfall]

Knob would lead to it being an actual 156 and description tells us it has been serviced and the new s-wing poppet (maybe the lever) has been replaced to match the change SP made in parts... Will work on any SP first. I have them on Mk-2, MK-3, MK-5, MK-10, MK-17, & MK-20/25 firsts. I also have them as an octo on my upgraded (Phoenix/Cyclone) double hoses.

One thing to tell you - if you get it and actually use it, don't expect the labeling to last....

 

[Open Ocean Diver]

Knob would lead to it being an actual 156 and description tells us it has been serviced and the new s-wing poppet (maybe the lever) has been replaced to match the change SP made in parts... Will work on any SP first. I have them on Mk-2, MK-3, MK-5, MK-10, MK-17, & MK-20/25 firsts. I also have them as an octo on my upgraded (Phoenix/Cyclone) double hoses.

One thing to tell you - if you get it and actually use it, don't expect the labeling to last....

Thanks, ya to bad they didn’t do a better job of labelling... looks great now. I plan to start using it on drift dives, setup with the 108 as the safe second with an SPG and continue using my Atomic on deep dives for now.

 

[rhwestfall]

I have used them for decades in Lake Erie below the thermocline...

 

[Kupu]

That Balanced Adjustable is in nice shape. I purchased one in similar condition, and have since put around 800 dives on it. Love the regulator, it is the second stage that sets the standard for me of high performance and simplicity. I play with and use many other second stages these days, but when I am just wanting to go diving with no thought towards the regulator the MK10 with Balanced Adjustable is what goes in the dive crate. I have taken it on many dives in the 100' to 140' range (and a bit deeper) and it has been great.

As rwestfall mentions the label printed on the front does wear away, although I can still make out the words on mine. The chrome on the edges and front gets scuffed from use also. Nothing wrong with a regulator that looks like it gets used...

The 108 HP is no slouch either, worthy of the HP name.

 

[rhwestfall]

Amen to above. A couple years ago, I started collecting a few of the 108Hp models (have a removable orifice). Not balanced, but are a real work horse. Simple, and really can tune nicely. Haven't used them yet (own too many regs)..

 

[Open Ocean Diver]

Amen to above. A couple years ago, I started collecting a few of the 108Hp models (have a removable orifice). Not balanced, but are a real work horse. Simple, and really can tune nicely. Haven't used them yet (own too many regs)..

I’m being monitored the wife thinks I maybe getting the collecting bug, to be honest these regulators and their history makes me want to buy other interesting well made regs. Lol

 

[buddhasummer]

D series. IME Best breathing reg bar none.

D series "best" breathers
108-109-156 sexiest
Conshelf 14 most robust
G260 "best" modern
G250V "best" overall

Of course just my opinion, based on my experience. YMMV.