TUSA
RS-230 RegulatorTUSA has introduced a new regulator that is more lightweight and easier breathing than any TUSA regulator I've previously used. The RS-230 combines an all new first and second stage into a unit that I think you'll seriously want to consider for your California diving.
The first stage, the R-200, uses a balanced diaphragm method with minimum variation in intermediate pressure in response to changes in residual tank pressure. Huh, you say? Well, simply stated, as your tank pressure drops, the variation of air pressure delivered from your first stage to your second stage changes very little. What this means to you is very consistent regulator performance throughout your dive.
I really like the physical configuration of this first stage. It is compact and features a total of six ports, three on each side in a triangular pattern with one port on each side being high pressure and two, low pressure. The arrangement will accommodate nearly any hose needs or configuration without any troublesome swivels or kinked hoses.
Details, details. Small, but important, they show an overall attention to quality. On the low pressure hose between the first and second stage the hose protectors at the joints are preinstalled - a small but nice feature that will prolong the life of the hose and regulator.
While on the subject of quality, it is important you know that this regulator, along with all TUSA gear, is manufactured under the ISO 9001 quality assurance program. Those that know this program can attest to its standards of consistent quality guidelines.
Advantages to this regulator become immediately apparent just by holding it in your hand. It is lightweight, streamlined, compact. Diving with this regulator will simply be easier on your jaw and face. On closer examination, this second stage is also quite durable. The housing is constructed from glass-fiber impregnated polyamide resin (wow!) for shock resistance and superior hardness. These materials offer superior heat, weather, and chemical resistance. Not only will this regulator body last longer through bumps and bangs, but through time, sun, and dirty water as well.
I particularly like the diaphragm cover of the second stage. The purge button is surrounded by sturdy plastic and metal in a stylistic triad design. It protects the front of the regulator very well at the same time looking very nice.
Inside the metal guts of the regulator are floroplated for reduced rubbing resistance of moving parts and air resistance. If you take the time to look inside the regulator, you will also marvel at its simplicity. The valve assembly comes in a "unit structure." Maintenance (by trained personnel only) is easy and quick. Servicing of this regulator should be faster and cheaper.
So how does this regulator breathe? Very good. Intake resistance was nonexistent, even with just the slightest inhalation effort. Just inside the mouthpiece is director to guide air directly into the mouth at a high rate, yet preventing free flow.
Fine tuning of air flow is a useful feature for diving in currents or while beach diving. An "Easy Touch" adjustment knob on the side of the regulator allows for custom adjustment in individual diving situations. Speaking of beach diving, I did take this regulator through the sandy washing machine at a local beach and it came out with flying colors, even after being filled with sand, a claim that not all high-performance regulators can make.
I made several dives with the regulator in a variety of situations. Air delivery was consistent up to my maximum test depth of 110 feet. In one instance, to get a particular photo, I found myself upside down in a small cave trying to get a photo. This kind of situation often leads to "wet breathing" with a regulator leaking water through the exhaust valve. While this regulator did leak some water, I was not gulping salt water to get the photo.
The only thing I found objectionable about this regulator was the small mouthpiece size. This is, however, a problem that can be easily and economically corrected by installing a mouthpiece better sized to your mouth.
The new TUSA RS-230 regulator should now be available at authorized TUSA dealers. For California dealers, see the Dive Store Directory in this issue or for a dealer near you, call (562) 498-3708.
