Regulator First Stage
The first stage is vital to your regulator. It’s connected to your tank and reduces the pressure to approx. 10 bar. The first stage is connected to your second stage with a hose, and together they make the regulator.
There are many options for a first stage. Most importantly, you can choose between a DIN (to 300bar) connection and an International/A-Clamp (to 232bar) connection. A DIN connection is suitable for up to 300 bar and is screwed into the tank. International (INT) designed for 232 bar and clamps over the tank valve. In general, DIN connections tend to be sturdier, lighter, and more compact than INT connections.
You also have the option to select between piston and diaphragm first stages and choose the number of ports as well as whether it should be balanced or unbalanced.
Piston or Diaphragm?
Piston-controlled first stages may vary in breathing comfort at lower tank pressures or depths.
Diaphragm-controlled first stages, on the other hand, provide consistent breathing comfort regardless of depth or tank pressure.
Balanced or Unbalanced?
After choosing between INT and DIN, and between piston and diaphragm, you might still decide whether you want your first stage to be balanced or unbalanced. Balanced first stages offer more consistent performance, regardless of the depth or tank pressure.
Over-balanced first stages also exist. Like balanced first stages, they offer consistent performance and additionally provide improved performance when diving to greater depths.
Number of Ports?
The number of ports on a first stage varies depending on the specific model, but they always include high-pressure and low-pressure ports. These ports are used to connect hoses to your tank. High-pressure ports are used for consoles with surface pressure gauges and computer transmitters, while low-pressure ports are used for second stages, octopuses, and inflator hoses.
At Lucas Divestore, we provide advice on the best first stages for your regulator. Visit our store in Nijverdal or get in touch with us.