Beuchat, a French company, recently released their new VX200, a high-end reg with an integrated anti-freeze system, and "new geometry of the expansion chamber for improved stability of the Venturi effect." The VX200 is more expensive than the VX80, which is often considered a "basic dive-school-type model." However, when John Bantin took both models out for a head-to-head, he discovered to his surprise that the VX80 "breathes perfectly." After a lot of rambling, some French, and a little philosophy about breathing nitrox 32 at 147 feet, the upshot is this: while the VX80 may be an "entry-level" product, it is a very good performer.