New: Scubapro MK21+S560 automatic machine

One of the leading manufacturers of diving equipment – the American company Scubapro, has released a new set of automatics. The youngest child from the Scubapro stable is the Mark 21 first stage combined with the S560 second stage. While the S560 can visually does not stand out from the crowd, the chrome-plated MK21 arouses interest already at first glance, with its appearance reminiscent of a motorbike engine cylinder.

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TheMK21 is a rather small piston automatic. Compared to its predecessor, the MK25, it is about 20% smaller. The unique ribbed design (similar to the MK25) acts as a heat sink, increasing the heat transfer surface area. This contributes to excellent resistance to freezing. The entire system is referred to as TIS – Thermal Insulating System.

A novelty is certainly the possibility of choosing 1 of 2 types of head. This will allow us to perfectly distribute the hoses in relation to the characteristics of our dives. In both cases we get 4 LP ports and 2 HP ports, however their distribution depends on whether we intend to use a single cylinder or a twinset.

Hose arrangement at the twinset head

High performance, low price (the MK21 is about $100 cheaper than the MK25) easy maintenance and service – these are the main features the manufacturer emphasises. When designing the MK21, special emphasis was placed on its reliable operation at extremely low temperatures. Both water and ambient temperatures before diving were to be taken into account.

The whole is enclosed in a chrome-plated and highly polished tin, made of marine grade brass. Weight MK21 – 916g.

The second stage of the S560, on the other hand, is an extremely lightweight and robust construction. The whole can is made of a combination of technopolymers and carbon fibre and with the use of some metal components. There is no lack of space for adjustment of air output by the diver, known from previous models, and VIVA (Venturi Initiated Vacuum Assis) adjustment. The whole is crowned with a silicone mouthpiece ensuring high comfort of use. This all adds up to effortless, calm, natural breathing regardless of the conditions.

The balanced first stage is able to deliver much more air to the second stage than any of its predecessors. In turn, the use of lighter and much more sensitive components in the second stage allows for a very quick response and immediate delivery of the correct amount of air. This is especially important during long, tiring dives as well as during decompression. As assured by the manufacturer, the performance of the set is independent of the temperature.

Lifetime warranty (subject to certain conditions, including service)

Automatic MK21 in combination with second stage G260

Price:MK21 $314, MK21+S560 $499, MK21+G260 $599

Partial specification:
MK21
– 4 HP ports
– 2 LP ports
– Ribbed design for better heat transfer
– Choice of 1 of 2 heads depending on dive type
– Compact size (20% smaller than MK25)
– Weight 916g

S560
– Airflow control
– VIVA adjustment
– Lightweight construction
– High resistance to mechanical damage
– Comfortable silicone mouthpiece