After more than 250 others before me, and having dove with different examples, I decided to purchase a new Phoenix unit for my restored Voit Navy. My only regret is that I waited so long to purchase my own.
My decision to wait was never based on the expense; it hinged upon my preference to dive with regs in their original configuration. I seldom even used a banjo fitting with a SPG.
After three dives, one to 132ffw, I can attest to the awesome performance offered by the balanced first stage. Also, having the ability to use LP and HP ports is "icing on the cake" as well.
The machining and plating are second to none, and I absolutely love the new yoke design.
These photos were taken when I first assembled the unit. Since then, I have replaced the AAS hose with a 30" Phantom braided LP hose, and added a 26" Phanton braided BCD inflator hose. My next planned modification is to replace the 30" HP hose with a 24-26" version.
If you are contemplating purchasing a Phoenix unit, I can encourage you not to wait like I did. Thanks, Bryan and Luis, for bringing my Voit Navy into the 21st century!
Greg