We tested the Nex Monterey scuba regulator. Offering impressive performance and comfort, it was our Testers Choice for scuba regulators.

We measured regulators’ ability to deliver air at a range of depths and breathing rates on the breathing simulator at Dive Lab in Panama City Beach, Florida.

We also tested regs at Alexander Springs in Central Florida with a team of test divers who scored them in 14 categories including ease of breathing, dry operation and comfort.

This regulator uses a modular first stage, which is offered in two color options and three different styles that provide divers with four, five or nine low-pressure ports. We tested the nine-port model, which includes a swiveling low-pressure turret, that was outfitted with an optional environmental seal and paired with balanced diver-adjustable second stage.

The reg took excellent and very good scores on the breathing simulator at recreational depth and beyond. In the water, test divers scored it excellent for ease of breathing in normal and head-down position, and it took a perfect score for dryness. “So smooth, quiet and comfortable,” one test diver commented.

The teeny-tiny second stage is lightweight with a small profile. It took the top score for comfort, bubble interference and noise. The Venturi can moderate free-flow, but even with the breathing adjustment tight it can’t quite manage to stop it entirely. The reg scored excellent for ease of clearing and test divers praised the responsive purge, which only requires a light touch to activate. This “sweet little reg,” as one diver described it, was a favorite of testers.

Offering strong performance, comfort and flexibility, the Nex Monterey is our Testers Choice for regulators.

Check out the full 2022 ScubaLab regulator review here.