Apeks MTX-RC Long Hose Single Tank Regulator Set
Best out-of-the-box DIR set
The Apeks MTX-RC Single Tank Long Hose Regulator Set is a high-performance scuba regulator set designed for the diver who prefers a long hose configuration* on a single cylinder – as a more practical and safer alternative to the traditional concept of using and donating an octopus.
It is also a perfect set-up for any recreational diver considering possibly transitioning into twinset diving, if not for depth, extended bottom times, and redundancy.
In fact, we've already set up an Apeks MTX Twinset Regulator Package, reflecting savings of nearly £500 for those of you definitely looking to dive doubles sooner than later.
What does MTX stand for?
Before covering why we believe the Apeks MTX-RC is the best out-of-the-box long hose single-cylinder regulator set on the market, we’ll briefly examine what these acronyms stand for.
First and foremost, the MTX in the Apeks MTX series regulators stands for Military eXtreme Technical. A regulator that was developed in accordance with the United States Navy Experimental Dive Unit extreme cold-water test, meaning an MTX-designated regulator performs in almost freezing water at a depth of over 60m.
A world-first over-moulded first-stage end cap to the sealed (environmental) diaphragm helps prevent ice buildup that could cause first-stage free flow in extreme circumstances. An environmentally sealed dry chamber prevents water from coming into contact with the first stage spring to stop freezing.
The forged 1st stage body of the MTX gives maximum thermal performance, while a ribbed diaphragm clamp on the first stage further ensures improved heat exchange in cold water conditions.
The Apeks MTX regulators are over-balanced for maximum performance at depth. In summary, MTX first-stage regulators are reliable, rugged and expedition-ready. Below, you can see how many MTX regulators Aqualung USA lists in its lineup.
The R in the MTX-R and MTX-RC regulators offered by Apeks to technical and recreational divers stands for “Recreational” marking a difference to the Military version.
What are the common features of MTX 2nd Stages?
Apeks manufactures two 2nd stages under the MTX designation, both with a matching acronym MTX 1st stage: The MTX-R and the MTX-RC.
Each regulator is as reliable as the other regarding performance, with a few functional differences.
Both of these have:
- A rugged construction that can withstand the rigours of diving in harsh environments.
- Reversible hose routing (left or right)
- Patented heat exchanger surrounds the valve mechanism, dissipating the cold caused by gas expansion while drawing in the warmth of the ambient water.
- Large purge button
- Comfobite mouthpiece
In comes the MTX-RC
While both regulators have outstanding performance underwater, whether in warm or extremely cold conditions, the MTX-RC has a few additional features to the MTX-R, such as a venturi adjuster and cracking resistance (inhalation) control.
The Venturi flow adjustment allows for ease of breathing by controlling the direction of air through the mouthpiece.
The cracking resistance knob on the side of the regulator is large enough (in fact, oversized) to be easily adjusted with the heaviest dry gloves in the coldest conditions.
It allows the effort required to start air flowing (cracking effort) and inhalation effort during a dive to be controlled and fine-tuned from a resisting effort up to near-no cracking effort with constant flow.
The image below shows the difference between the MTX-R (White) and MTX-RC (Black) regulators. Notice the mould on the R version has - and + on the case with a double-side arrow but no lever, which is part of the RC version. Instead of the cracking resistance control knob on the RC the R has only an end cap.
Overall, the Apeks MTX-RC is a more versatile regulator than the MTX-R which is likely why Apeks has chosen to build the leading single tank Long Hose set, otherwise also referred to as the Single Cylinder Tek Set, around it.
Its venturi adjuster and cracking resistance control make it more adaptable to different diving conditions and personal preferences. However, the MTX-R is also a high-quality regulator well-suited for cold-water diving.
Apeks MTX-RC Long Hose Single Tank Regulator Set
Now that we've covered why the MTX first stage is so special and the exceptional performance and functionality of the MTX-RC 2nd stage, we have arrived at the all-inclusive solution for the long hose set designed for single tanks.
We love this set for its well-thought-out, robust, reliable design focusing on exceptional performance.
The best part is all you have to do is open the box, then the messenger bag, put the bits together, and you're set for a great diving experience.
Everything you need to put together a long hose set is included in the package.
- 1 x MTX-RC first stage (DIN)
- 2 x MTX-RC Second Stages
- 2.1m primary regulator hose
- 60cm backup regulator hose
- TEK SPG with HP hose
- 2 x 75mm Bolt Snaps
- Second Stage Bungee Connector Kit
- Messenger bag
In the future, if you decide to switch to twinsets for redundancy and longer bottom times, you only need to add another 1st stage, like the MTX-R. In that, it's future-proof.
We like this regulator set so much we've incorporated it into our DIR starter packs and have plenty in stock.
*The long hose configuration needs its own review, and there are plenty out there, including Youtube Videos from various sources.
In short, the long hose leads to the primary 2nd stage from the 1st stage regulator, which is the one a diver breathes from during a dive.
It is also the regulator donated in a low or out-of-gas situation from the mouth, with the long hose allowing ample room between two divers to address any problems, ascend to the surface or swim out of a confined environment.
This ensures the donated regulator is a reliably working one.
There is no concept of an octopus. Only the regulator on the long hose is donated.
The second 2nd stage is referred to as a backup regulator, carried under the neck (often in a bungee necklace) and easily accessible to the donor to switch to.
