Which marker is the best choice?

Rubbr Chickin wrote: I would go with an A5, it retains some of what is already on the Alpha Black, plus it is in a close price range (under $200). The Phenom would be the next step up, there are hundreds of upgrades for it. Both have Cyclone.

Why not just put a Cycone on the AB? Seems silly to spend $200 for a new A5 when you can just add a Cyclone for $60.

The Phenom is really the only one of the options that is a functional upgrade. The Phenom has a different type of valve and allows for lower operating pressure and better efficiency. The A5/X7(non-Phenom) are essentially the same as the AB, but with a different shell and the addition of the Cyclone. You will find better efficiency and I would imagine better consitency out of the Phenom. If you have the funds to buy one, it would be my choice*

Well thank you for your all your input.  I may just end up getting the electric phenom so I can go mechanical most of the time, and switch to electric on the rare occasions that I visit fields or scenarios that allow it, or if I do some backyard ballin'.  It seems like that might be the best call.

I'd have to do some more legwork on that.  Because while some fields don't classify Response triggers as an automatic firing mechanism, they almost surely would think of the e-grip in that way.

I got word back from some fields and it looks like some would allow it whereas some would not.  But it sounds like I can still disable the RT if needed if I were to visit those fields, so I suppose I would still consider a marker with a RT.

I'll have to check into the RT situation with the fields nearby.  If I don't have a response trigger, whats the best way to improve my rate of fire?

I'm looking to upgrade from my alpha black tactical to something with a bit better performance.  I want to stick with a tippmann for their reliability and customization ability.  I don't need the best gun on the field, but I do want something that can help me compete a bit better.  Now I'm primarily looking at the X-7 Phenom Mechanical, A-5 w/response trigger (the 2011 version) and the original X-7 w/response trigger.  The reason I don't include any e-grip technology on any of these is because the fields near me don't allow them.  (Only semi-auto)  That's why the response trigger seems like a good option.  However, I know the Phenom is supposed to be a step forward in performance on its own, and I didn't know if all the advantages it offered would make it worthwhile.  Hopefully I can get an idea of whats best if some people weigh in on the matter.  Feel free to discuss the reasons behind your answer, vote in the poll, and suggest alternatives if you think I'm going in the complete opposite direction of what I should be looking at.

Thanks for your help!