Easier as a carryon -- Remstar 560 or S9 Autoset

[Olidakatt]

So, I think I've finally found a DME that can help me out with getting the data capability my original DME wouldn't. They're letting me chose which one I want. Seems like a nice operation, local extension of a bigger DME. Fingers crossed that things will work out with them.

It seems like the consensus on the board is the S9 Autoset is the Mercedes, the Remstar 560 is the Honda line. Both good cars, but one just "nicer."
Personally, I've only owned Hondas in my life -- three of them. I'm leaning towards the Remstar 560.

However, I do travel quite a bit for work. A lot of my trips are short - like 1-3 days. That being said, I prefer to travel with carryon luggage only. From what I can tell in pictures, the S9 Autoset has the advantage as far as the travel bag design goes. It seems like it might fit under the seat in front of you, instead of in the overhead compartment. Therefore, I'd still be able to use my allotted space up there for my carryon. The Remstar looks a little more boxy. This difference between the two may just be the dealbreaker for me.

Of course, pictures aren't exactly completely descriptive. What's the deal with there travel cases?

[Pugsy]

I traveled by airplane last July with my PR S1 and the travel case fit under the seat just fine.
I also have a S9 but I have not traveled with it.

[msradar65]

I've traveled with my S9 autoset. I have a tag hanging on the outside in that states medical equipment. I put it in the overhead and have never had a problem. The flight attendents are usually helpful too if it needs space to itself. Most people flying are as well. I tell them you are welcome to put your stuff on under mine...but please do not place your belongs on top as that is very expensive fragile medical equipment.

[Olidakatt]

Thanks for the responses.

So do the travel bag set ups for both fit under the seat in front of you? Seems like Ms. Radar already called dibs on the overhead space.

[Heavylids]

So do the travel bag set ups for both fit under the seat in front of you? Seems like Ms. Radar already called dibs on the overhead space.

Easily. The S9 Aotoset case is about the size of a small laptop case or briefcase.

[Pugsy]

So do the travel bag set ups for both fit under the seat in front of you? Seems like Ms. Radar already called dibs on the overhead space.

Yes, they both will fit under the seat in front just fine.
The PR S1 travel bag looks bulkier than it really is. It holds the blower unit and humidifier attached with room on the top of the machine for the hose and mask and will still fit under the seat. No need to disassemble the units.
The S9 travel bag has little baggie type compartments for the blower and humidifier separately.

[archangle]

Size:

The S9 looks smaller, but when you actually compare them, they're very close in size.




Mechanical feel:

The PRS1 feels more solid. Or "clunky" if you think of it that way. It feels like it would take more abuse.

[NEW YORKER]

I don't know what airline you use but when I fly with Jet Blue they let me take the CPAP machine and a carry on. Plus the first checked bag is free.

[ughwhatname]

I was told that the CPAP is considered medical equipment, and as such, does not count toward carryon limitations. I don't think its just JetBlue.

I don't know what airline you use but when I fly with Jet Blue they let me take the CPAP machine and a carry on. Plus the first checked bag is free.

[yulcdn]

I travel a fair amount and have both the Remstar and the Resmed. I like to travel with the Resmed S9 because

• It looks like a computer case
  It is less bulky
  it has a strap on the back that allows you to easily attach it to any wheelie.
  The Remstar had to be carried on my shoulder

[msradar65]

I have to agree with you. I usually fly with my laptop carry on bag and my Resmed bag. The Resmed bag fits very nicely on the handle of my laptop carry on bag....I really prefer to only have to roll ONE item.

And CPAP does not count as in your carry on as its medical equipment. I always carry my CPAP on the flight with me...and when all possible my carry on bag.

I travel a fair amount and have both the Remstar and the Resmed. I like to travel with the Resmed S9 because

• It looks like a computer case
  It is less bulky
  it has a strap on the back that allows you to easily attach it to any wheelie.
  The Remstar had to be carried on my shoulder

[NEW YORKER]

I agree with you. I just said when I fly Jet Blue they don't consider it a carry on. I would think most airlines consider it to be medical equipment. When I flew on Continental, they let me take it on with my carry on. I was just saying the same thing as you did but not with the same words but I think I made my point.

I was told that the CPAP is considered medical equipment, and as such, does not count toward carryon limitations. I don't think its just JetBlue.

I don't know what airline you use but when I fly with Jet Blue they let me take the CPAP machine and a carry on. Plus the first checked bag is free.

[WingNut]

Do you need the humidifier for 1 or 3 days? That will cut down the bulk by 50%. I use the S9, and it neatly fits in a standard size carry-on with the hose, power supply and my clothes, toothbrush etc. I keep the mask separate in my briefcase so it doesn't get squashed. A wheelie bag carry-on is more robust than the Resmed carry case as well so no need to mollycoddle it.

[Pugsy]

Do you need the humidifier for 1 or 3 days?

I absolutely have to have my humidifier. My nasal mucosa have already told me what they will do when I don't add moisture (forgot to add water and tank ran dry twice) and it was real ugly. I would do without the machine before I would go without the humidifier. Not using the machine for one night...a bit crappy the next day only....Not using the humidifier horribly crappy for 3 days with congestion, drainage, sinus issues and the whole nine yards. I would take one slightly crappy day over 3 horribly crappy days any day of the week.

Though if someone doesn't need or use the humidifier that is also a choice that could be made to help save space. To me it is not much different than a book I take along to read so a non issue.

[Olidakatt]

Thanks for all the responses. I went with the S9, in the end it's 2 pounds lighter in total.