I don’t think I have ever heard anybody say their gear was junk. Think of it, were all relying on this to be able to survive under water. If the gear was junk the user isn’t here to tell about it.LOL I’m diving on the same regulators I bought in 1987. They work flawless under all condition from tropic to ice dives. Brand doesn’t matter as long as your trust your equipment, you’ll enjoy diving and have a great time.