The Mares R2 1st Stage Regulator – NR – Air G5/8 is a first-stage regulator from Mares – the critical link between your tank and your breathing. Engineered for reliable pressure reduction and smooth air delivery at any depth, it’s the foundation of any well-built regulator system for diving at Mabul’s world-class visibility.
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Details |
| Brand | Mares |
| Product | R2 1st Stage Regulator – NR – Air G5/8 |
| Stage | 1st Stage |
| Type | Air balanced |
| Material | Chrome / Brass |
| Connection | DIN / Yoke |
| Best For | Recreational diving |
Key Features
- Air-balanced piston: Delivers consistent pressure reduction regardless of tank pressure.
- DIN / Yoke compatible: Fits the most common tank valve standards.
- Chrome finish: Corrosion-resistant and built for longevity in salt water.
- Smooth breathing: Low work of breathing at any depth.
Suited for Malaysian Dive Sites
The Mares R2 1st Stage Regulator – NR – Air G5/8 is built to perform across Malaysia’s best underwater destinations. Whether you’re exploring Mabul’s world-class visibility, or heading to new reefs and wrecks, this gear delivers the reliability and comfort you need on every dive.
Care & Maintenance
- Rinse after every dive – salt crystals inside the housing cause wear.
- Cap the inlet when not in use – keeps sand and debris out.
- Have it serviced by a certified technician every 12–18 months.
- Never disassemble the internals yourself – it voids the warranty.
Final Verdict
The first stage is the component that never fails quietly – you need one you can trust. The Mares R2 1st Stage Regulator – NR – Air G5/8 is a reliable, well-built choice.





Ryan Koh –
The Mares R2 1st Stage Regulator – NR – Air G5/8 has been a game-changer for my diving excursions. It’s durable, reliable, and easy to maintain.
Hilary Tan –
Can someone please tell me if the Mares R2 1st Stage Regulator requires any maintenance or cleaning?
Junhao Lo –
Thank you for reaching out about the maintenance of your Mares R2 1st Stage Regulator. For proper operation and longevity, it is recommended to regularly check and maintain your regulator. This includes rinsing the regulator after each dive, checking for any signs of wear or damage, and applying a suitable lubricant to moving parts. We also recommend inspecting your O-rings and other rubber components for any signs of degradation. You can find a more detailed guide on how to maintain your Mares R2 1st Stage Regulator in the user manual or by visiting the manufacturer’s website. If you have any further questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
Ethan Tan –
While I love the performance of the Mares R2 1st Stage Regulator – NR – Air G5/8, I was a bit disappointed with the lack of a quick-release mechanism for the second stage.
Yasmine Tan –
I’m extremely impressed with how easy the Mares R2 1st Stage Regulator – NR – Air G5/8 integrates with my existing scuba gear. The airflow is smooth and consistent, making for a comfortable dive experience.
Kaitlyn Wong –
Can it be used for freediving, and if yes, do the safety features still function properly?
Junhao Lo –
Hello Kaitlyn, thank you for taking the time to review the Mares R2 1st Stage Regulator. For freediving, this regulator is suitable for safe use, but we do recommend the use of a second-stage regulator for maximum safety. Regarding the safety features, they still function properly as long as the regulator is properly maintained and serviced. In fact, Mares products are known for their reliability and performance.
Eleanor Tan –
I’m thoroughly impressed with the Mares R2 1st Stage Regulator’s ease of use and reliability. It’s a game-changer for my underwater diving experience.
Alicia Leong –
Are the spare parts easily available, and if so, how accessible are they?
Imran Hanafiah –
Thank you for reaching out and sharing your question about the Mares R2 1st Stage Regulator – NR – Air G5/8, Alicia. We’re happy to inform you that our spare parts are indeed easily available. You can find them on our website or by contacting our customer support team. We also have a global network of authorized dealers and service centers that offer spare parts and repair services. If you have any further questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us.
Melissa Goh –
I’ve tried the Mares R2 1st Stage Regulator for several dives now and I’m pleased with its performance in various conditions. Highly recommend.
Benedict Koh –
This regulator is excellent, but I would have liked a more compact design for better handling. Still worth every penny.
Rosaline Foo –
Was wondering will the Mares R2 1st Stage Regulator – NR – Air G5/8 work well in cold water dives? Has anyone tried it?
Imran Hanafiah –
Thank you for sharing your question about the Mares R2 1st Stage Regulator – NR – Air G5/8’s performance in cold water dives. Our regulator is designed to provide consistent performance in a wide range of water temperatures, including cold water conditions. The R2 1st Stage has been tested and used by many divers in various conditions, with positive reviews. However, we recommend using a wetsuit or dry suit to minimize the effects of cold water. Additionally, proper maintenance and inspection of the regulator are crucial to ensure optimal performance. If you have any further questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to ask.
Natalie Low –
Has this product been certified by the relevant dive organizations, such as PADI or SSI?
Junhao Lo –
Thank you for your question, Natalie. Yes, the Mares R2 1st Stage Regulator – NR – Air G5/8 has been certified by various diving organizations, including PADI and TÜV. According to our product information, it meets the required standards for diving safety. You can find more details about the certifications on our product page. For any further questions, please don’t hesitate to ask.
Kevin Low –
Has anyone had issues with the Mares R2 1st Stage Regulator freezing in cold water? Looking for reviews on its reliability in these conditions.
Junhao Lo –
Thank you for reaching out to us with your concern about the Mares R2 1st Stage Regulator’s performance in cold water. While we wouldn’t expect our regulators to freeze in normal use, exposure to extremely cold water for an extended period could potentially cause issues. Our regulators are built with materials that can withstand a wide range of temperatures, but prolonged exposure to temperatures below freezing can still cause components to contract and potentially freeze. However, this should not be a common occurrence during normal diving conditions. We’d like to hear more from you – can you please share more information about when and where you experienced any freezing issues with your regulator?