GLA PRO-DS-3 Dual Stage CO2 Regulator (3 Block Modular Manifold)

GLA PRO-DS-3 Dual Stage CO2 Regulator (3-Block Modular Manifold)

The GLA PRO-DS-3 Dual Stage CO2 Regulator is our full-size modular dual-stage platform configured with three independently controlled CO2 outputs. Engineered for aquarists seeking premium pressure regulation, expanded working-pressure capability, and long-term system flexibility, the PRO-DS-3 allows three planted aquariums to operate from a single regulator and CO2 cylinder.

Each manifold block provides its own precision needle valve and integrated bubble counter for independent CO2 adjustment. Built with premium pneumatic components, each PRO-DS regulator is individually inspected, pressure tested, and leak checked in the USA prior to shipment.

At a Glance

• Pressure Regulation: Dual-stage
• Cylinder Connection: CGA-320 standard USA CO2 cylinders
• Pressure Monitoring: Dual gauges for cylinder pressure and working pressure
• Output Pressure Range: 0–140 PSI
• Standard Configuration: 3-block manifold for three aquariums
• Independent Control: Precision needle valve and bubble counter for each output
• Expansion: Modular expansion up to six independently controlled aquarium outputs
• Automation: Integrated electric solenoid
• Warranty: GLA Limited Lifetime Warranty

Best For

• Three-aquarium planted CO2 installations
• Aquarists seeking GLA’s full-size dual-stage regulator platform
• Multi-aquarium systems requiring independent CO2 adjustment
• High-tech planted aquarium installations
• Applications requiring expanded working-pressure capability
• Hobbyists who want dual gauges and modular scalability
• Long-term installations with future aquarium expansion in mind

The PRO-DS-3 is suitable for both beginner and experienced aquarists. Its primary advantages are its full-size dual-stage architecture, three independently controlled outputs, expanded pressure range, dual-gauge instrumentation, and future modular expandability rather than a specific aquarium size or experience level.

Why Choose the GLA PRO-DS-3?

The PRO-DS-3 combines GLA’s flagship dual-stage regulator platform with a three-block modular manifold, providing independent CO2 control for three aquariums from a single regulator and CO2 cylinder.

• Full-Size Dual-Stage Architecture: Designed for refined working-pressure control and long-term stability
• Three Independent CO2 Outputs: Each manifold block provides separate adjustment for its connected aquarium
• Expanded Pressure Range: Adjustable output from 0–140 PSI provides additional flexibility for higher-pressure applications
• Dual-Gauge Monitoring: Separate gauges provide visual reference for cylinder pressure and regulator working pressure
• Modular Manifold System: Expand from three independently controlled aquariums to as many as six
• Precision CO2 Adjustment: Each manifold block includes its own precision needle valve
• Integrated Flow Monitoring: Each manifold block includes a bubble counter for convenient visual CO2 monitoring
• Automatic Operation: Integrated solenoid allows CO2 injection to be controlled using a timer or compatible controller
• System Protection: Integrated pressure relief valve provides an additional level of protection

Dual-Stage Pressure Regulation

Dual-stage regulators reduce cylinder pressure through two separate pressure-reduction stages. This architecture is designed to provide increased working-pressure stability as cylinder pressure changes over time and to reduce the likelihood of pressure increases as the CO2 cylinder approaches depletion.

The PRO-DS combines dual-stage regulation with an expanded working-pressure range for aquarists who want maximum configuration flexibility from a single regulator platform.

• Two-stage pressure reduction
• Stable and controllable working pressure
• Reduced likelihood of end-of-tank pressure spikes
• Expanded 0–140 PSI output capability

Precision Control & Automation

The PRO-DS-3 includes three independently adjustable manifold outputs. Each output is equipped with its own precision needle valve and integrated bubble counter, allowing CO2 delivery to be tuned separately for each connected aquarium.

The integrated electric solenoid allows CO2 injection to be automatically coordinated with the aquarium photoperiod using a standard timer or compatible controller.

Dual gauges provide separate visual references for cylinder pressure and regulator working pressure. The working-pressure gauge is used when setting regulator output pressure, while the cylinder-pressure gauge provides information about pressure within the connected CO2 cylinder.

Bubble rate should be treated as an aquarium-specific reference rather than a universal measurement of dissolved CO2. Actual CO2 requirements vary with aquarium volume, plant mass, lighting, circulation, diffusion efficiency, and surface agitation.

3-Block Modular Manifold System

The PRO-DS-3 includes a three-block modular manifold designed to provide three independently controlled CO2 outputs from a single regulator and CO2 cylinder.

Each manifold block includes its own precision needle valve and integrated bubble counter, allowing each aquarium to be adjusted independently even when the connected aquariums have different CO2 requirements.

• 1 Block: 1 independently controlled aquarium
• 2 Blocks: 2 independently controlled aquariums
• 3 Blocks: 3 independently controlled aquariums
• 4 Blocks: 4 independently controlled aquariums
• 5 Blocks: 5 independently controlled aquariums
• 6 Blocks: 6 independently controlled aquariums

The PRO-DS-3 arrives configured with three manifold blocks. Compatible blocks may be added later if additional aquarium outputs are required.

View GLA Modular Manifold Expansion Blocks

Engineering & Performance

• Dual-Stage Pressure Regulation: Two-stage architecture designed for increased working-pressure stability
• Laser-Precision Metal-on-Metal Valve Seat: Engineered for consistent regulation and long-term operation
• Multi-Stage Stainless Steel Micron Filtration: Helps protect internal pneumatic components from contamination
• Precision Needle Valves: Independent fine adjustment for each manifold output
• Integrated Bubble Counters: Visual CO2 flow monitoring for each connected aquarium
• Integrated Pressure Relief Valve: Provides additional system protection
• Premium Pneumatic Components: Selected for precision, reliability, and long-term performance
• USA Inspection & Testing: Each regulator is pressure tested and leak checked prior to shipment

Specifications

• Installation: CGA-320 standard USA CO2 cylinders
• Pressure Reduction: Dual-stage
• Pressure Monitoring: Separate cylinder-pressure and working-pressure gauges
• Output Pressure Range: 0–140 PSI
• Standard CO2 Distribution: Three aquariums with included 3-block manifold
• Multi-Aquarium Expansion: Modular expansion up to six aquarium outputs
• Output Control: Independent precision needle valve for each manifold block
• Flow Monitoring: Integrated bubble counter for each manifold block

What’s Included

• GLA PRO-DS-3 Dual Stage CO2 Regulator
• 3-block modular manifold
• 3 precision needle valves
• 3 integrated bubble counters
• Integrated electric solenoid
• Cylinder-pressure gauge
• Working-pressure gauge
• GLA OEM CO2 tank seal

Please Note: A CO2 cylinder, CO2-resistant tubing, and compatible diffusers, atomizers, or reactors are required to complete the CO2 installations and are sold separately.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the PRO-DS different from the DS-Mini?
Both the PRO-DS and DS-Mini use dual-stage pressure regulation and modular manifold systems. The PRO-DS is GLA’s full-size dual-stage platform with a 0–140 PSI output range and separate gauges for cylinder pressure and working pressure. The DS-Mini provides dual-stage regulation in a smaller overall footprint with a 0–60 PSI output range and a single working-pressure gauge.

What is the benefit of dual-stage regulation?
Dual-stage regulation reduces cylinder pressure through two pressure-reduction stages, providing additional working-pressure stability as cylinder pressure changes and reducing the likelihood of end-of-tank pressure increases.

How many aquariums can the PRO-DS-3 run?
The PRO-DS-3 includes three manifold blocks and is configured to independently control three aquariums. Each output has its own precision needle valve and bubble counter.

Can I expand beyond three aquariums later?
Yes. Compatible GLA modular manifold blocks may be added as your aquarium system grows, allowing expansion to as many as six independently controlled outputs. When expanding an existing regulator, select the manifold generation that matches your regulator because G2 and G3 manifold blocks are not cross-compatible.

Do all three aquariums receive the same amount of CO2?
No. Each manifold block has its own precision needle valve, allowing CO2 flow to be adjusted independently for each aquarium. This is useful when connected aquariums have different volumes, plant mass, circulation patterns, or CO2 requirements.

Can the three aquariums use different CO2 delivery methods?
Yes. Each output may be connected to a compatible diffuser, inline atomizer, or reactor provided the connected equipment is operated within its required pressure and flow range. Working pressure is shared by the regulator, while CO2 flow is adjusted independently at each needle valve.

Why does the PRO-DS have a 0–140 PSI output range?
The expanded output-pressure range provides additional configuration flexibility for applications that require higher working pressure. Most aquarium installations will not require the maximum available pressure, and working pressure should always be adjusted to the requirements and operating limits of the connected CO2 equipment.

What do the two gauges monitor?
One gauge monitors CO2 cylinder pressure and the second monitors regulator working pressure. This allows both pressures to be viewed independently during setup and operation.

Is the PRO-DS-3 suitable for beginners?
Yes. Dual-stage regulators are not inherently more difficult to operate during normal aquarium use. The PRO-DS-3 is suitable for both beginner and experienced aquarists who want independent CO2 control for three aquariums, premium dual-stage pressure regulation, and future modular flexibility.

Choosing the Right GLA CO2 Platform

The GLA GRO is our streamlined single-stage platform for aquarists seeking compact, precise CO2 control. The DS-Mini combines dual-stage pressure regulation with a compact modular design, while the PRO-DS is our full-size dual-stage platform with expanded pressure range, dual-gauge instrumentation, and modular configuration options.

Within the PRO-DS family, the regulator architecture remains the same while the included manifold configuration determines the number of independently controlled aquarium outputs. The PRO-DS-3 includes three manifold blocks for three aquariums.

Compare GLA CO2 Regulators & Systems

GLA CO2 Equipment

Green Leaf Aquariums specializes in planted aquarium CO2 equipment engineered around precision, reliability, and long-term performance. GLA regulator systems are built specifically for the demands of nature aquariums and high-tech planted aquarium environments.

Each GLA regulator is individually inspected and tested in the USA prior to shipment to help ensure dependable operation and consistent performance.

Support & Warranty

Return Policy: Due to the technical nature of pressurized aquarium CO2 equipment, this item is non-returnable and non-refundable. Qualifying defects remain covered under the GLA Limited Lifetime Warranty and are handled separately through warranty support. Please contact GLA prior to ordering if you need assistance with product selection, installation, or compatibility.

• Limited Lifetime Warranty: Regulator covered against qualifying defects in materials and workmanship
• Lifetime Support: Expert assistance available
• Installation Guidance: We’re here to help you get started

Limited Lifetime Warranty: GLA CO2 regulators are covered by a limited lifetime warranty against defects in materials and workmanship for the original purchaser. This warranty is non-transferable and applies only when the product is used in accordance with Green Leaf Aquariums, LLC (GLA) guidelines and standard operating practices.

Warranty coverage applies only to products purchased directly from greenleafaquariums.com or authorized sales channels. Proof of purchase is required for warranty claims.

This warranty does not guarantee product performance for the lifetime of the purchaser. Product lifespan may vary based on usage, installation, maintenance, and operating conditions.

• Coverage applies only to manufacturing defects under normal use
• GLA reserves the right to repair, replace, or issue store credit at its sole discretion
• If a product is discontinued, a comparable replacement or credit may be provided based on product condition and age

Warranty Exclusions:

• Improper installation, misuse, neglect, or accidental damage
• Use of improper tools, fittings, or excessive force
• Modifications, alterations, or unauthorized repairs
• Damage caused by contamination, corrosion, or improper gas supply
• Normal wear, cosmetic wear, or external damage that does not affect normal functionality

Important: A wrench should only be used to secure the regulator to the CO2 cylinder. Damage resulting from improper use of tools, excessive force, or incorrect installation methods is not covered under this warranty.

GLA is not responsible for damage caused by improper installation or use. However, repair services and support may be available for a fee.

CO2 cylinders, tubing, cartridges, and other consumable or accessory items are not covered under the regulator warranty unless otherwise specified.

For complete warranty coverage, exclusions, claim requirements, and terms, please review our Shipping, Returns & Warranty Policy.