Hi
I'm currently using the Apex XT Auto. Like dreant said, Resmed's algorithm is more agressive than others, definitely more so than Apex. There was a Resmed funded study done which seems to have charts showing this well. Google it and it'll pop up. I couldn't take the Resmed at pressure 13H2O - was like a hurricane. But then again, now that I've owned the Apex, when it does reach 13, it's just as bad
. I get woken up by the aggressive surge in pressure from the Resmed.
The Apex is gentler, but then the AHI doesn't go down as low as the Resmed for the same pressure range settings on both machines. Only managed AHI < 3-4 on the Apex but <0.3 on the Resmed. Are these numbers really that critical once below AHI <5, only the individual will know.
Have to thank Shu for his detailed steps on importation. Got my machine from 1800CPAP and spare mask set and cushions 2nd round. Much much cheaper. Only concern was warranty in case the machine had trouble or I needed some advice. The latter I managed to read up from other forums. I panicked for half a week when my readings went through the roof and I thought the machine went south on me. It has since stabilized so I'm back to monitoring my progress, whew.
Resmed Autoset S9/A10 gives lots of data which sleepyhead software will read and chart. Apex doesn't do as much and the Apex Software is meant to be restricted to medical professionals but currently now available free on Apneaboard. If you are not a data freak, Apex will give u sufficient info. If you want flow data it can't do that but the Resmed will. Other brands may have that detail as well. There is a German brand that's comparable in price to Apex in Singapore but you get German quality and I believe more data info as well. The German brand uses proprietary software but that can be found on the Internet if you search. But for size, Apex can't be beaten as the power cube is built in. Resmed has an external brick to lug around and special cable ends.
I can understand why the local Shops charge so high. Rent, staff overheads, attending to patients/clients, sustainable business model all factor in. If you are confident and know enuf, I guess it's worth it to buy online for the APAP. But if u need guidance and a fall back, then buy from the local shop and not worry overly. Make up by then buying the other stuff online - hoses, multi masks types, etc. it a whole new world out there
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Been on this journey for 2 over months. But have been reading up a lot and it helps.
P/s: for brand new equipment do try to thoroughly wash the hose and mask with warm dishwashing liquid to get rid of the plastic chemical smell. Before using the machine, air it by running it occasionally for a few days before use. I went straight in to use it and had a full nights blast of plastic chemical smells. Had major sore throat and sinus problems when I woke up the next morning and took 2 weeks to recover. Guess I'm sensitive.
Hope the above helps those starting out on this journey.