2011 Reg Tests: Mares Prestige 22 DPD
Mares Prestige 22 DPD
PRICE RANGE
$350-$500
SPECS
» Ports 2HP, 4LP (one 1⁄2-inch primary LP port)
» 1st Stage Balanced diaphragm
» 2nd Stage Unbalanced
» MSRP $450
www.mares.com
PERFORMANCE» Simulator 4-5 (Very Good to Excellent)» Real World 4 (Very Good)
**FEATURES **
The Prestige 22 DPD uses the MR22T first stage with Dynamic Flow Control to minimize intermediate pressure drop, and pairs it with an updated second stage, which uses a shaped internal baffle coupled with Mares’ Vortex Assisted Design, resulting in an easy breather at any depth. Like the Abyss, the Prestige’s mesh- design second-stage cover minimizes free-flow, and testers appreciated the reg’s Superflex hose instead of a stiffer rubber LP hose. The Prestige was a solid performer in the simulator tests, rivaling the more expensive Abyss Navy. Testers found breathing to be steady and dry in normal diving positions, and everyone liked the venturi lever.
**BOTTOM LINE **
With good to excellent scores, the compact Prestige is a good choice in the $350 to $500 category.
PERFORMANCE SUMMARY
Mares Prestige 22 DPD
PRICE RANGE
$350-$500
SPECS
» Ports 2HP, 4LP (one 1⁄2-inch primary LP port)
» 1st Stage Balanced diaphragm
» 2nd Stage Unbalanced
» MSRP $450
www.mares.com
PERFORMANCE
» Simulator 4-5 (Very Good to Excellent)
» Real World 4 (Very Good)
**FEATURES **
The Prestige 22 DPD uses the MR22T first stage with Dynamic Flow Control to minimize intermediate pressure drop, and pairs it with an updated second stage, which uses a shaped internal baffle coupled with Mares’ Vortex Assisted Design, resulting in an easy breather at any depth. Like the Abyss, the Prestige’s mesh- design second-stage cover minimizes free-flow, and testers appreciated the reg’s Superflex hose instead of a stiffer rubber LP hose. The Prestige was a solid performer in the simulator tests, rivaling the more expensive Abyss Navy. Testers found breathing to be steady and dry in normal diving positions, and everyone liked the venturi lever.
**BOTTOM LINE **
With good to excellent scores, the compact Prestige is a good choice in the $350 to $500 category.
PERFORMANCE SUMMARY