That certainly makes sense (going with a 9` hose). It makes me wonder why my good friend at the dive shop didn`t pick up on that? I`m having to make quite a few adjustments due to my height, but, I`m glad I`m finding these pointers out. I do have to admit that coming from a standard sport diving setup into the back plate / wing rig was quite intimidating, but, after getting into the pool with it I fell in love! I could not believe how much better my buoyancy was - perfect horizontal. The openness on my mid section was nice, too. I used to think I liked being "hugged" by my BCD until I wasn`t being constricted! I appreciate all of your pointers!