Mares Instinct 12S Regulator

The all chrome plated marine brass first stage regulator is a balanced diaphragm design which is environmentally sealed. The diaphragm membrane transmits the pressure changes to the internal mechanism eliminating the need for the surrounding water to enter the intricate mechanism. The benefit of this type of first stage design is that none of the internal parts are exposed to contaminants such as salt, sand, chlorine or pool acids. These environmental contaminants cause corrosion and mineral deposits to form on the internal mechanism deteriorating regulator performance.

The Instinct 12S uses Tri-Material Valve Technology. This patented technology created to optimize performance, safety and reliability. The valve is covered with hard Polyurethane (PU) and the sealing surface is a layered with a soft PU for a perfect seal. Tri-material (brass, soft PU and heavy-duty" PU) reaches new levels of durability.

Another unique feature of the first-stage is the Dynamic Flow Control (DFC). The DFC system minimizes the intermediate pressure drop during inhalation, making it possible to use a simpler more reliable second stage. No type of manual adjustment of the second stage is necessary due to the consistency derived from a first stage that guarantees a stable flow of air, even under extreme conditions. The first stage comes equipped with two 7/16" High Pressure Ports and four 3/8" Low Pressure Ports.

The Instinct's Small and Compact Techno-Polymer second stage has superior performance with a Side Exhaust that Deflects the Exhaled Breath, so that hardly any bubbles crowd your view. Compensating openings in the back minimize the likelihood of free-flows in strong current. The oversized purge button makes it easy to find and easy to use, even when wearing thick gloves. The Instinct Second Stage with its Vortex Assist Design (V.A.D.) System: all Mares second stages offer the unique patented VAD system. The air bypass tube conveys air to the mouthpiece creating a swirling vortex with a low pressure area in the center this keeps the diaphragm down during inhalation, giving very sensitive and easy breathing at all depths. Regulator is equipped with Mares Fluid Dynamic Deflector (FDD) that receives and properly directs the airflow from the bypass tube directly to the mouthpiece.

The mouthpiece is made of soft hypoallergenic silicone: limiting jaw fatigue and offering a secure fit even after very long dives. Mares developed the Superflex hose after many years of testing and research. The results achieved far surpassed the tests required by EN250. Hose is extremely light weight and exceptionally soft, guaranteeing the maximum freedom of movement and further reducing jaw fatigue. Superflex hose is 3/8" Threaded High Flow hose and is 29.5" (75 cm) in length. Regulator has a total weight of 29.1 oz (825 g), comes with a Comprehensive Owner's Manual and is covered by a limited lifetime warranty.