Mares has expanded its regulator range in North America with the introduction of the Planet 62X, a new configuration designed to offer the breathing characteristics of the Planet second stage in a lighter and more travel-friendly package.
The new regulator combines Mares’ Planet second stage with the company’s compact 62X first stage, providing an alternative to the existing Planet 88X configuration rather than replacing it.
According to Mares, the complete Planet 62X system can be up to 29% lighter than the Planet 88X, depending on the connection selected.
A Lighter Planet Configuration
Much of the weight reduction comes from the switch to the 62X first stage.
The DIN version of the 62X first stage weighs 464g (16.4oz), while the INT version weighs 638g (22.5oz). By comparison, Mares lists the 88X first stage at 786g (27.7oz) in DIN configuration and 954g (33.6oz) in INT.
That reduction makes the new configuration particularly relevant to divers travelling with their own regulators or looking to reduce the overall weight and bulk of their equipment.
The Planet second stage retains the technology that distinguishes the Planet range, including Mares’ Airmatic pneumatic valve system, VAD and an all-metal construction.
Mares describes its Airmatic system as a fully pneumatic valve that eliminates the conventional spring mechanism used in many second stages. The company says the design is intended to provide consistent inhalation characteristics while reducing the number of components subject to wear.
Divers wanting more detail about the technology can find additional information on the Mares Planet regulator platform.
Planet 62X Will Sit Alongside Planet 88X
Mares has emphasised that the new regulator is an addition to its range rather than a successor to the Planet 88X.
Both configurations will continue to be offered, giving divers a choice between the lighter 62X platform and the heavier 88X configuration depending on their priorities.
The 62X first stage is already used elsewhere in the Mares regulator range and incorporates the company’s compact first-stage design. Mares currently offers it independently as well as in several regulator configurations.
The new Planet 62X therefore takes an established Mares first-stage platform and pairs it with the newer Planet second-stage technology.
North America Exclusive
The Planet 62X has been introduced specifically for the North American market and will be available through authorised Mares dealers in the region.
Mares’ current US product listing prices the Planet 62X Regulator at $898.95, with DIN and INT connection options available.
The existing Planet 88X remains part of the range, allowing divers to choose between the two first-stage configurations rather than the 62X replacing the original Planet system.
The Planet 62X is being introduced as Mares continues to expand the Planet regulator family around different diver priorities, including breathing performance, equipment weight and travel convenience.
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