2011 Reg Tests: Aqua Lung Calypso
Aqua Lung Calypso
PRICE RANGE
UNDER $350
SPECS
» Ports 1HP, 4LP
» 1st Stage Unbalanced piston
» 2nd Stage Unbalanced
» MSRP $285
www.aqualung.com
PERFORMANCE» Simulator 2-4 (Fair to Very Good)» Real World 4 (Very Good)
FEATURES
The fifth generation Calypso is a simple, low-cost design that produced very good results in the less demanding tests but didn’t perform as well in the more challenging RMV/depth profiles. The first stage has a large-diameter, high-flow piston design that should provide reliability. The Calypso utilizes the same second stage as the Titan, which is reversible without additional parts, has a grid built into the exhaust to reduce noise and bubble size, and has side openings in the front cover to reduce free-flow in high current. Like its performance in test loops that resemble real-world diving, the Calypso scored very good marks in our in-water tests. Though increased effort in “unusual” positions was noted, our testers rated it high for its breathing effort in normal positions, and its easy purging and clearing.
BOTTOM LINE
The Calypso is a good choice for new divers looking for a low-cost entry-level regulator.
******PERFORMANCE SUMMARY**
Aqua Lung Calypso
PRICE RANGE
UNDER $350
SPECS
» Ports 1HP, 4LP
» 1st Stage Unbalanced piston
» 2nd Stage Unbalanced
» MSRP $285
www.aqualung.com
PERFORMANCE
» Simulator 2-4 (Fair to Very Good)
» Real World 4 (Very Good)
FEATURES
The fifth generation Calypso is a simple, low-cost design that produced very good results in the less demanding tests but didn’t perform as well in the more challenging RMV/depth profiles. The first stage has a large-diameter, high-flow piston design that should provide reliability. The Calypso utilizes the same second stage as the Titan, which is reversible without additional parts, has a grid built into the exhaust to reduce noise and bubble size, and has side openings in the front cover to reduce free-flow in high current. Like its performance in test loops that resemble real-world diving, the Calypso scored very good marks in our in-water tests. Though increased effort in “unusual” positions was noted, our testers rated it high for its breathing effort in normal positions, and its easy purging and clearing.
BOTTOM LINE
The Calypso is a good choice for new divers looking for a low-cost entry-level regulator.
PERFORMANCE SUMMARY