HELIX COMPACT + PRO HD COMPACT SET

This Aqua Lung set pairs the Helix Compact and its matching Octopus Pro with the back-inflation Pro HD Compact, and adds the Combo 2K console. The Helix Compact is a travel regulator that keeps a full-sized balanced diaphragm first stage.

Its second stage is pneumatically balanced rather than downstream, which separates it from travel regulators sold on weight alone. The DIN 300 bar first stage weighs 475 g, with two high-pressure ports in 7/16 inch UNF and four medium-pressure ports in 3/8 inch UNF. Work of breathing is 1.25 j/L on primary and octopus alike, and a Mini/Maxi knob sets opening effort. The Pro HD Compact is published at under 2.2 kg in ML/LG, about a kilogram under the wrap-around Pro HD, and it still takes patented SureLock II weight pockets. The Combo 2K console adds a 50 mm pressure gauge and an in-line depth gauge on one 80 cm hose, weighing 389 g.

The result is a travel set that asks for no compromise on the second stage, on a buoyancy compensator sized to the diver rather than to shop stock. Nothing in it was chosen later to fill a gap.

Sizing follows the Pro HD Compact, four bands from XXS/XS to XL/XXL; the rest is one size. Cylinder, computer, weights and exposure protection are separate. The wrap-around Pro HD is the alternative where surface flotation counts for more than packed weight. At R30,144 the set saves R7,536 on the parts bought singly.