We have posted two Customer Notifications on the Gates website regarding the EX1 housing. Two field issues have been identified relating the SP44 dome port and rear Magnified Viewfinder. The notifications address the issue, provide background information, and propose actions/recommendations.
Thanks for posting here. I really want to commend you and Gates for being so proactive on these issues. So often in this business and others, we deal with companies that explain away issues and resist customer requests for needed product improvements. Having shot extensively now with the Gates EX1, I for one see both of these items as a big value add to the usability and performance of the housing. I imagine other shooters will agree.
I would be happy to share my experiences and findings on how best to utilize these improvements.
Thanks again for listening to your customers!
shawn
Thanks again for listening to your customers!
I do not have a EX1 but do shoot with a Gates and my experience is exactly the same. They listen and really go the extra yard to support their products.
Yeah... Gotta join in here... I must admit that John is a very good looking bloke and looks like he works out... BUFF just ain't the word here people... Damn !! that man is scorching
If you ever want a test puppet on the EX1 from a influential (as you know) coldwater shooter John just pop one in the post and i'll give her a test drive UK styley...
Give my best to Pamela as well...
Dive safe
DeanB
You guys are right on. John, Pamela & the whole crew down at Gates are right on at taking care of any problems. I commend them for always openly coming out to admit and correct the problems on their own.
I experienced the softness on the acrylic SP44, but found the glass version to be much better. Of course, nothing compares to the SWP44c.
Even though i went to the dark side and got a Sealux, GATES have been very helpful in their communications with regards to fitting one of their monitors to my housing. Whereas Sealux acknowledge receipt of my mails, then don't answer.
Sealux answered very quickly when i was sending payment through, and seem to answer other peoples enquiries for purchase (Dxxx_B), but ignore my request/feedback for improvements when sent on the same days in the same language... interesting eh.
GATES 1 - Sealux 0
Yep... GATES get my vote too. I always get a personal response from John no matter how small the issue and always within 24hrs.
Fantastic service!!!
Thanks John...and I knew I wasn't crazy! -
The "Small iris (f8 or higher)" is noted but negates the low light performance of the camera. Luckily the noise is low and gain up to +9db. I have not noticed a need to stay above 8 with the swp44c.
I have just received the latest version of the adjustable viewfinder from Gates.
I can say that this is a real improvement over the original eye-piece: distortion have been solved and all in all you get a clear view and camera information are readable. Moreover you have the ability to adjust it according to your diopter needs.
Thanks to John Ellerbrok and Gates staff to have listen to customer need. I have appreciated John approach towards customer needs and opinion.
Alberto
Happy Gates customer
I'll chime in as well. John, Karen, Pamela, and Dale have constantly made tweaks and adjustments to my HC1 housing as needed. Sometimes (as in customizing things) I paid, but mostly I didn't. And this service continues long after the warranty ran out.
It was initially a tough choice between a Gates and a competitor's housing. For my situation, I made the right choice.
What they said. My Gates Diego seems to be nicer every time I get it back, despite what I put it through BEFORE I send it back..
Gates folks,
Just got back shooting with the new eyepiece. Way way way better. I forgot to plug in the monitor feed one day and didn't miss a thing except for the overhang that now owns a chunk of my forehead. BTW - the buoyancy ring for the 44c rocks. Just perfect.
