Our recommendation? We like the Dive Rite brand bands because their adjustable height bolt kit has proven to be useful, and given the equivalent quality the Dive Rite bands represent a better value. We like the Thermo brand valves because their use is very widespread, so parts and repairs are going to be available no matter where you find yourself. We also like the beefier Thermo knobs, and we gotta say the Thermo manifold has much more 'curb appeal' so while it costs more we prefer the Thermo manifold. We strongly prefer 200 Bar DIN/K outlets, they are more convenient to use and if the cylinders are configured as singles you can install the K insert for use with Yoke regulators. To sum up our choice: Thermo 200 Bar DIN/K Manifold with Dive Rite Bands and that's what is in our photos.

Both Dive Rite and Thermo brand manifolds come standard with nearly indestructible hard rubber ribbed knobs that feature a molded-in stainless steel insert. Dive Gear Express now offers the option of aftermarket Vindicator Handwheels pre-installed on your manifold. These knobs are a safety device that indicates at a glance if the valve is open, closed or in between. You have a choice of staying with the standard knob, or the Vindicator on just the center bar isolation valve, or Vindicators on all three manifold valves. We strongly recommend the optional Vindicator Handwheel on the isolator valve.

Prices include FREE continental U.S. shipping!

Independent Twins Are Not Doubles

What about Low Pressure cylinders? The LP85 cylinders have particular size and trim properties that are not currently available with any other cylinder. But with that exception, we don't offer most LP cylinders anymore. With the introduction of the high-pressure (HP) 3442 psi cylinders, the low pressure 2640 psi cylinders no longer make good sense for many applications although the LP cylinders are typically a slightly lower cost. Particularly in doubles configurations where the diver will likely be turning the dive based on gas consumption rules, the lower cost LP cylinders are a false economy. The new high pressure cylinder buoyancy, weight and balance characteristics are very similar to, actually a little better than, low pressure cylinder characteristics. So if you want an LP cylinder, simply underfill the HP cylinder to receive the lower capacity. For example the X8-130 yields 104 cubic feet at 2640 psi and the X8-119 yields 95 cubic feet at 2640 psi. Yet you always have the option of filling to the higher pressure and capacity should the need arise, eliminating the concerns regarding overfills.

If shopping on-line, watch out for shenanigans. Some on-line retailers will 'low ball' a cylinder only price but then add shipping surcharges or 'cylinder handling fees' at the last step of checkout. Some doubles packages purchased on-line may not include VIP stickers, which means you'll pay extra at the local dive shop to have it inspected. Look carefully at what Dive Gear Express includes in our doubles packages. Everything is Nitrox-Ready and say so on our VIP sticker. We install the valve with a Viton neck O-ring and oxygen-compatible lubricant; no VIP re-inspection fee is necessary before filling. Our price also includes FREE continental U.S. shipping, without any additional surcharges.

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