Complete 1st stage, 2nd stage and hose The DS4 first stage lacks the rotating turret found on the XTX50 first stage and offers one HP port. This compact first stage is a time-proven workhorse that has been embraced by the technical community around the world.
This compact first stage has four medium-pressure ports and one high-pressure port. Features an innovative Diver Changeable Exhaust system (DCE). The system gives the diver the ability to change from a small exhaust tee to a large exhaust tee. This gives the user a choice, wider exhaust tee for minimal bubble interference (essential for underwater photography) and narrow exhaust tee for a smaller compact comfortable regulator. Can be converted from a right-handed hose configuration to a left-handed one. The process of changing the regulator to a left-handed configuration is both quick and simple. However this procedure must ONLY be performed by an APEKS Authorised Service Technician.
First Stage
:• DS4 first stage – no rotating turret.
• Unique over-balanced, diaphragm design - as the diver descends, the over-balancing feature allows the medium pressure gas in the hose to
increase at a rate faster than ambient. This results in superior performance at depth.
• An environmental dry system keeps water out of the main spring chamber thus preventing ice buildup and keeping silt and contamination out.
Second Stage
• Pneumatically-balanced second stage results in smooth, easy breathing.
• The XTX purge buttons are large and easy to operate. A 2-stage progressive purge is used - press the purge on the side for a lower flow rate,
useful where more control is required such as filling lift bags etc, then press in the centre for the full effect of the purge, i.e. when regulator clearing etc.
• The large venturi lever has a soft touch rubber grip, which makes it easier to locate and use. The lever reduces the amount of grit ingress and therefore resists any possible friction giving a smooth operation.
• The second stage is manufactured with active protection against infection as all molded parts are produced with an additive that kills MRSA, protects against E-Coli, bacteria and fungi, and is also very effective against viruses, mould, yeast and algae.• A silicone exhaust valve improves the breathing performance of the regulator.• The Comfo-bite™ mouthpiece virtually eliminates jaw-fatigue.• A heat exchanger (patented) which surrounds the valve mechanism, dissipates the cold caused by gas expansion while drawing in the warmth of the ambient water.