2014 ScubaLab Testers' Choice: Hog Zenith Regulator
MSRP: **Zenith second stage $124.95; Zenith black $129.95; d3 first stage $209.95; d3 cold $229.95
**Contact: edge-gear.com
Balanced-diaphragm first stage; two HP, five LP ports; 360-degree swiveling turret

We tested both the Zenith and Zenith Black, and found that they are essentially identical other than their color highlights. Their performance was exceptional, especially since they were nearly the lowest-priced regs we tested (the pricing does not include a hose, which allows divers to select a preferred length). HOG calls itself a “boutique” brand for tec divers, but there’s nothing fancy-pants about the Zenith, which gets right all the details of what works. On the breathing simulator, both Zeniths scored excellent at maximum recreational depth and very good scores beyond. In real-world ergo tests, divers gave the Zeniths the highest overall scores of any reg we tested — not because they excelled in any one category, but because they did well across the board in all categories. The Zenith was our Testers’ Choice in this category..

Looking for the full review? Visit the 2014 ScubaLab Regulator Review here.