AQUATEK Basic CO2 Regulator R-76

Brand: Aquatek of California

The Basic R-76 is AQUATEK's entry model: brass body, integrated cool touch solenoid, two gauges with dual psi and kg per square centimetre scales, and a needle valve for fine release of CO2. Some sellers bundle a bubble counter with a built in check valve and a length of CO2 tubing, which makes it a complete start for a first pressurised system beyond the cylinder itself. It fits standard CGA320 refillable tanks and works with the brand's SplitPro splitters.

A fair first regulator for a 20 to 55 gallon planted tank run on a plug timer. Single stage regulation means pressure rises as the cylinder empties, so watch the gauges below roughly 500 psi and change the tank early. The solenoid hums faintly when energised, audible in a quiet room but not in a cabinet.