Fans of diaphragm regs will be interested to learn that Scubapro launched a new regulator in Winter 2020, that’s CE certified to the new EN250A standard. The ‘MK19 EVO BT’ (BT = Black Tech) balanced diaphragm first stage is smaller than competing brands. It has been designed specifically for technical divers wanting to explore cold / contaminated (think silty) waters below 4°C / 38°F. The swivelling turret (2 x HP ports, 4 x high-flow LP ports, 1 x axial ‘super-high-flow LP port) enables optimal and smooth hose routing.

The MK19 is paired with a G260 Carbon BT second stage, which benefits from a carbon fibre cover. (The ‘G Series’ is based on the highly reliable (and million plus selling) ‘G250’ second stage). Scubapro states the reg set should be durable, even in the most extreme diving conditions, because it is finished with a Diamond-Like Carbon (DLC) coating “which protects against scratches and the ravages of saltwater and corrosion”.