I have a 97. I've used the 77 as well. The 77 breathes nice but is super loud on comms due to the large port size. I know of two companies that won't even let divers use them because how loud they are. All you hear is breathing.
Both hats are stainless and super durable.
The 97 reg is similar to the exo reg. Very easy to work on and no sheetmetal to ding up on the reg.