what has happened with REVO now its owned by mares? has that had any impact since the creator and inovative brain has sold the company?
From what I have experienced, things are actually better. Parts are more available now. It was a single source in the states and now just about anyone who can get Mares stuff can get you service parts for the rEvo. There are more service centers opening up so there are choices in where to send things if major work needs to happen.
There are a few little things. 1st stage regs changed to Mares, although the Apeks are still available the last I checked (option of what regs to get). Some of the clips on the harness now have the Mares name on them. But they did not really do anything. Paul is still around, answers questions when asked. Even though he sold it, he isn't gone.
I'm surprised it hasn't been mentioned more as a choice. Checks the OPs boxes for BMCL, easy to travel. I've worn mine onto an airplane as my carry on. Fits in the overhead bin, even with tanks installed.
I got lucky when I went shopping for my first rebreather. Got into DEMA where I got to see everything and talk to everybody. Start looking at simplicity, number of seals and failure points, etc. There were some that I really liked on paper, but once you see them in person and take a look at how complex there idea of simplicity it, or how many proprietary parts are in there system, I backed away from several. Everything made in house to control quality = everything is only available through them. Multiple layers of redundant systems = twice the parts to fail and any will take it out of service.
I won't deal with anything Hollis/Huersh that isn't a one and done purchase. Mask, fins, no problem. Long term service, I really don't trust them. Too much history with leaving old stuff without support.