Should TDI Helitrox replace AN+DP?

[rjack321]

Still on the edge between getting AN/DP or AN/Helitrox.
I like the idea of getting the option to add 20% He in my tank if needed, but I don't like the overcost coming with it.
I have contacted few instructors and the minimum additional cost for helium dives during the course is $150 (and up to $250)
At this price, I am wondering if it would not be better to simply get AN/DP then go for Trimix course when I feel ready.

The problem with this is that you end up not having the option of using a little helium in the 100-170ft range. Trimix is a much deeper cert level and not everyone wants to be doing 200ft dives.

$150-250 is basically nothing, if you are balking over that trivial cost then an actual trimix dive is going to make your eyes water

I would do the AN/heliox option then decide how much you even like diving >130ft (on air or mix) with that minimal investment.

 

[kensuf]

Still on the edge between getting AN/DP or AN/Helitrox.
I like the idea of getting the option to add 20% He in my tank if needed, but I don't like the overcost coming with it.
I have contacted few instructors and the minimum additional cost for helium dives during the course is $150 (and up to $250)
At this price, I am wondering if it would not be better to simply get AN/DP then go for Trimix course when I feel ready.

If it's not going to cost you anything more than the fills, do it. Just because you have a Helitrox cert doesn't mean you are required to dive it all the time after, but if you wind up with just a DP cert you can not dive helium on dives you might wish you had it.

 

[MomZo]

The cost of AN/DP or AN/Helitrox is basically the same here in Asia. I've been quoted $640 for the course no matter which one I take.
$150 to $250 is not "trivial", it is 24 to 39% additional cost of the course!
And when you only dive in warm water with usually good visibility, I'm not sure He is that useful, even going down to 45m/150ft...
That is why I am still considering the 2 options, and not closing the door to Helitrox.