From RAWalker:

My Aquatec adds in the extra feature of a built in Sub-duck.(Noise maker) It didn’t breath near as well until I rebuilt it myself and carefully adjusted it to attain better performance.

As for the issues that some divers report in using an integrated octo:

1) you must practice controlling buoyancy while breathing on it. There are options depending on the BCD it is used with. I have found that no matter the BCD or wing there is always a lower dump valve to use to purge air if need be. Others use the pull dump on the shoulder but not every BCD has this available. Finally it is possible to use the buttons on the integrated octo while breathing on it you need to half press the deflate button while slowly and gently exhaling save enough air in you lungs to clear when you release the button or use the power purge. This last method requires the greatest amount of skill and practice since timing of the breathing and control of the button can be critical.

I personally prefer a 5’ primary hose with the integrated octo it allows each diver more space since the primary is a donor during a Out of Air incident with a integrated. Be sure the BCD hose length is comfortable for you since it is what you’ll be using during an incident. I’d also suggest occasionally switching to your Integrated Octo at depth and breathing from it so you are familiar with it’s feel and not surprised during and incident.