Vortex™ Hydrozone Vs. Sapphire Spas^® myDualzone6.0m™ review (Features, cost, pros, cons, & more)

What is a dual-zone swim spa?

A dual-zone swim spa is an innovative solution that merges swimming pool and hot tub functionalities into one compact unit. This versatile system is divided into two distinct areas, each serving a unique purpose.

The primary section, dedicated to swimming and exercise, features a powerful current-generation system. This allows for stationary swimming, similar to an aquatic treadmill.

Users can adjust the water flow to match their skill level, making it suitable for various fitness needs. Many models also offer swim tethers for additional resistance training.

The secondary area is designed for relaxation and hydrotherapy. It typically includes comfortable seating with strategically placed jets for a massage-like experience. This zone often comes with extras like cup holders and mood-enhancing LED lighting.

A standout feature of dual-zone swim spas is the independent temperature control. Each section has its own circulation and heating system, allowing for customised temperatures.

The swimming area is usually kept cooler for comfortable exercise, while the spa section can be heated higher for relaxation and muscle recovery.

Benefits of a dual-zone swim spa include:

• Efficient use of space: Combines pool and hot tub functions in one unit
• All-season use: Enjoy swimming and spa experiences year-round
• Versatility: Multiple users can engage in different activities simultaneously

However, potential buyers should consider factors such as higher initial costs compared to separate units and possibly more complex maintenance due to the dual-system design.

In summary, dual-zone swim spas offer a practical and flexible option for those seeking to combine fitness, relaxation, and hydrotherapy in a single, compact installation.

Key points about dual-zone swim spas:

• They feature two separate water zones
• One zone is for aquatic exercise and recreation, set at a cooler temperature
• The other zone is for hydrotherapy and relaxation, often set warmer

Vortex™ Hydrozone™ Dual-Zone Swim Spa Review

Vortex Spas™ is owned by the US-based Jacuzzi^® Group, which also owns Jacuzzi^® Spas. Acquired in 2021, Vortex™ Spas first partnered with Jacuzzi^® Group in 2019 as a supplier.

Vortex Spas™ manufactures spas, swim spas, pergolas, and saunas sold in over 20 countries.

The Vortex Hydrozone™ Dual Zone Swim Spa combines a swim spa and a spa pool in one unit with separate water zones and controls. Each zone independently adjusts jet pressure, temperature, and sanitiser systems.

The spa section can accommodate up to five adults and includes an ergonomic lounger with foot massage, a neck and shoulder therapy seat, two back massage seats, and a child or cool-down seat. The swimming zone also features two cool-down seats.

How much is the Vortex™ Hydrozone™?

The Vortex Hydrozone™ Swim Spa ranges in price from $34,990 to $47,990, depending on the model.

There are four different versions of this product so you can choose the best model for you and which depths, 1.3m or 1.5m best fit your needs.

The Vortex Hydrozone™ comes with optional upgrades including ClearLift™ Automatic Cover, a patent-pending motorised system that effortlessly lifts heavy covers with just a turn of a key.

The ClearLift™ Automatic Cover is the first of its kind for swim spas – being a fully retractable system that lifts and folds the cover completely out of the way to one side of the spa.

What are the best features of the Vortex™ Hydrozone™?

The Vortex™ Hydrozone™ offers many great features. Here are some of the top highlights.

• SpaNet™ Heat Pump saves you up to 75% on heating costs.
• Purezone AOS™ water care system delivers superior water clarity automatically with reduced sanitiser usage.
• SpaNet^® SmartTouch™ Premium Controller, a 4.3-inch touchscreen control panel that's intuitive like a smartphone and easy to use even with wet fingers.
• Spa Health Indicator Light allows you to monitor your spa's condition without lifting the cover.
• Oven-cured 4-layer shell construction uses high-quality, USA-sourced Aristech^® Acrylic, precisely formed for reinforced durability.
• Steel Permaframe™ Construction, made from galvanised tubular steel, resists rot, mildew, and vermin, ensuring it lasts the lifetime of your swim spa.
• Thermolock™ ABS Base, a molded ABS with a 75mm edge protects spa internals from water.
• ThermoLock™ Insulation System, an eight-layer insulation system that masterfully traps warmth from top to bottom, side to side.
• ThermoLock™ High-Density Locking Cover uses a 50% denser material for better insulation and has an aluminium frame to prevent collapse, enhancing safety and efficiency.
• Tranquil Water Feature for a soothing, relaxing ambience.
• Built-in beverage chiller to level up your entertainment experience.

What are the Pros and Cons of the Vortex™ Hydrozone™?

To help you determine if the Vortex™ Hydrozone™ is the right fit for you, we've listed its pros and cons.

Pros

• Reasonably priced. It is affordable compared to other swim spas with similar features.
• Versatile. It functions as both a spa and a swimming pool.
• Durable. Built with a high-quality US-made acrylic shell and galvanised steel frame.
• Effective Water Care. Features the Purezone™ AOS Automatic Water Care System.
• Heat pump-compatible. It can be fitted with an integrated heat pump, saving up to 75% on heating costs.
• Multiple Variants Available. Offers different options for the number of swim jets, pumps, and depths to better fit your use
• Safe Entry Steps. Both spa and swim sections feature safe entry steps.
• Backlit jets and perimeter lighting. Provides the ultimate night ambience.
• Integrated swim rail. No bolt-on rail to maintain
• Twin filtration banks. Its swim zone is equipped with twin filtration banks for even current flow making swimming easier.
• Plunge Model Option. Available for those who prefer not to have swim jets.
• Advanced Filtration. Nine high 50sqft filters for easy water clarity, three at the spa end and six at the swim end.

Cons

• It has fewer hydrotherapy jets compared to other dual-zone swim spas in a similar price range.
• It has only a single recliner which can be an issue if two people want to use the recliner at the same time.
• There is no aqua foam swim floor and treadmill feature, which is typically found in premium spa brands.

Learn more about the Vortex™ Hydrozone™ in our detailed review article below.

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Sapphire Spas^® myDualzone6.0m™ Dual-Zone Swim Spa Review

Sapphire Spas^® is an Australian-owned company with stores in Australia and New Zealand. Founded 20 years ago, they manufacture a range of spa pools, ice baths, plunge pools, and swim spas in Australia.

The myDualzone6.0m™ is offered in two variants 一 classic and premium.

The classic model is the standard version, while the premium model provides better hydrotherapy and includes additional features.

Like the Hydrozone™, the myDualzone6.0m™ combines a swim spa and a spa pool into one unit, each with separate water zones and controls. Each zone allows for independent jet pressure adjustment, temperature, and sanitising systems.

The spa section can seat five adults and includes two ergonomic seats and three back massage seats. The swim zone has two cool-down seats.

How much does the Sapphire Spas^® myDualzone6.0m™ cost?

At the time of writing, the Sapphire Spas^® website does not display prices for all their products. You will need to contact them directly or request a quote online via their website.

What are the top features of the myDualzone6.0m™?

• It features two recliner hydrotherapy seats.
• Purewater™ CD ozone sanitisation or Clearzone™ water sanitisation for clean and sanitised spa water.
• The SpaNet^® SmartTouch™ Premium Controller features a 4.3-inch touchscreen that's as intuitive as a smartphone and can be used even with wet fingers.

Hydrozone™ vs. myDualzone6.0m™ Specification Comparison

To help you choose the right dual-zone swim spa, we've compared the features and specifications of the Vortex™ Hydrozone™ and Sapphire Spas^® myDualzone6.0m™.

Have a look at the side-by-side comparison below to help you see the differences and decide which model best suits your needs.

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Should I buy the Vortex™ Hydrozone™ or the Sapphire Spas^® myDualzone6.0m™?

Deciding between the Vortex™ Hydrozone™ and Sapphire Spas^® myDualzone6.0m™ really comes down to your needs and your budget.

The Vortex™ Hydrozone™ and the myDualzone6.0m™ both provide the option to swim and relax. They have dual-zone features, allowing you to swim in cooler water and then switch to a warmer section to unwind.

Let's take a closer look at some important factors you might want to consider when comparing each product.

Consider the Vortex™ Hydrozone™ if:

• Advanced Features. You want high-tech features like an advanced automatic water cleaning system automatic cover, an easy-to-use touchscreen control and the ability to have an inbuilt audio system.
• Easy Maintenance. You like features that make upkeep simple, like an efficient automatic water care system.
• Durability. You’re looking for a swim spa constructed with robust materials, such as a high-quality US-made acrylic shell a galvanised steel frame, and no timber, ensuring longevity.
• Versatility. You need a swim spa that allows for both swimming and relaxing and has different swim and depth options.

Consider the Sapphire Spas^® myDualzone6.0m™ if:

• Versatility. You want a swim spa that functions as both a swim and spa pool with separate zones and easy temperature control.
• Comfort. You desire additional comfort with features like twin recliner hydrotherapy seats.
• Effective Water Care. You value clean and sanitised spa water with options like Purewater™ CD ozone sanitisation.

In Summary

If advanced features, long-term durability, and easy maintenance are at the top of your list, the Vortex™ Hydrozone™ is likely the better fit for you.

On the other hand, if you value a simpler, more straightforward spa experience with the added comfort of a double lounger, the myDualzone6.0m™ could be the better choice.

However, there’s nothing like trying both options for yourself to find out if they are what you’re looking for. If you're interested in trying out the Vortex™ Hydrozone™, you can book a wet test at your nearest Spa World showroom.

Disclaimer The following registered trademarks are owned by companies not affiliated in any way with Spa World™ or Vortex Leisure Pty Ltd – the parent company of Spa World Ltd:

Sapphire Spas^® and myDualzone6.0m™ trademark is owned by T&G Enterprises (VIC) Pty Limited.

Affiliations: Vortex^® Spas and Spa World^® are trademarks owned by Vortex Leisure Pty Ltd. The Jacuzzi^® brand is owned by Jacuzzi Inc. and exclusively licensed for use to Spa World™ in Australia and New Zealand.