Apeks ATX vs XL4

[partha]

Looking at setting up a dive centre with Apeks regs and was thinking of the ATX regs. Recently had a look at the new XL4 regs and with the only a slight price difference its worth considering. Does anyone have any experience with the XL4? Wondering what the primary differences are? The second stages are tiny and super light- very tempting. But if these are intended for personal use travel regs then I'm worried they wouldnt handle the wear of a dive centre rental setup.

Any thoughts?

Much appreciated.

 

[MikeInDorset]

I have XTX50s and my teenage son has XL4s. Both are excellent regs and breathe really well. Basically, the XL4's have all the travel-friendly lightness of the Flight regs but with full cold water performance.

To be honest for a centre I think you'd be fine with ATXs, which is what my local centre uses for student workhorses even with younger students (I think they put smaller mouthpieces on some of them).

 

[Coldwater Fan]

Go for the ATX series.
They use the standard service kits from Apeks and they are very simple Butter good.
They are reliable in cold water and easy to breathe.
I used them in 5 degrees C. cold water below 40 m without an problems.

BR

 

[runsongas]

Xl4 has a better exhaust tee than the atx series

 

[Centrals]

For rental go for ATX 20 with US4 especially in Asian warm water.

 

[buddhasummer]

The XL4 is rather convoluted and requires what looks like a few specialized tools. I'd go the ATX20, simple to service with no specialized tools required.

 

[partha]

Great. thanks everyone for the feedback. I'll stick with the ATX regs to keep it easier for service. Maybe pick up an XL4 for myself as a travel set

 

[buddhasummer]

Hmmm, I wouldn't buy an XL4 for travel unless you're going to carry the tools required. I doubt many shops, particularly in far flung places, would have tools on hand to service it should the need arise. Personally I'd stick with an ATX for travel also. YMMV.

 

[CarcharodonCarcharias]

XL4 is following the new APEKS trend of customized parts/size/hose and all that jazz?

 

[Centrals]

From time to time Apeks would produce some really strange designs:
1/2" LP port for the old DST, FST and FSR 1st stage.
"Status" 1st stage.
"Flight' with proprietary hose.

Any equipment that require special tool is NOT really suitable for travelling.
I replaced the stupid 1/2" LP hose in my DST and FSR with a standard one(3/8") + "reduction" adapter.