The "shade 2" of the Crystal 2.0 is very deceiving. I would call it "shade 0.5", as there is practically nothing there! The e684 is like 10x as dark! The other hood that I have is what I would call a real shade 2 is the HTP Striker CSV. That one is lighter than the e684.
I was using it yesterday, and I realized I have to retrain my brain! I keep thinking that, even though the hood is down, that I don't even have my hood on and for a split second it freaks me out right before I strike the arc. Its like one of those
"oh schit! I almost blinded myself ! Where is my welding helmet" kinda reactions! It is stupid-nice! I recommend this helmet over
any welder or welding product/consumable ever.
You
think you're happy. Until you try the Crystal 2.0, you wont realize just how miserable you are!
