| Manifold Type | Part Number (Example) | Material | Connection Type | Best For |
| Barb Manifold | D1800 | Chrome-Plated Brass | Integrated Barbs | Budget builds, permanent setups |
| Flare Manifold | D1852 | Chrome-Plated Brass | 1/4" MFL Threads | Versatility, easy line cleaning |
| Duotight Manifold | DUO260A | Plastic/EPDM | 8mm Push-to-connect | Quick assembly, leak-proof seals |
| Draft Board | D1049 | Plastic/Stainless | Integrated Regulators | High-end systems, varying PSI |
1. Traditional Barb Manifolds (The Workhorse) - D1800
These are the industry standard for home bars. They feature individual ball valves for each line so you can shut off gas to specific kegs.
Material: Usually chrome-plated brass.
Advantages: Extremely durable and heavy-duty. They rarely leak at the manifold body itself.
Disadvantages: Requires hose clamps (H950) for every connection. If you want to change a line, you have to cut the tubing.
When to use: Use this for a standard beer-only keezer where you don't plan on moving lines around frequently.
2. MFL Flare Fitting Manifolds (The Versatile Option) - D1852
These look identical to barb manifolds but have 1/4" MFL threaded ends instead of permanent barbs.
Material: Aluminum.
Advantages: High modularity. You can screw on different sized barbs (D2502 or KEG1111) or Duotight-to-Flare adapters (DUO106).
Disadvantages: Every connection point is a potential leak site if you forget a nylon flare washer (KEG602).
When to use: Great if you switch between different tubing IDs or want the ability to easily disconnect the gas lines for deep cleaning.
3. Duotight Simple Manifolds (The Modern Choice) - DUO260A
These are lightweight, plastic push-to-connect manifolds designed specifically for EVABarrier tubing.
Material: High-quality engineering plastic with EPDM O-rings.
Advantages: No tools required. You simply push the tube in. They provide a superior seal compared to barbs and clamps.
Disadvantages: Being plastic, they don't feel as strong or durable as brass, though they are rated for high pressure.
When to use: Ideal for those using EVABarrier 8mm OD tubing. Itβs the fastest way to build a system.
4. Duotight Draft Board / Secondary Regulators
Unlike a standard manifold that delivers the same pressure to all kegs, a draft board (like the D1049 or individual Inline Regulators D1047) allows for independent pressure control.
The Advantage of Multiple Regulators:
Stout/Porter: 8β10 PSI.
IPA/Lager: 10β12 PSI.
Seltzer/Sparkling Water: 25β30 PSI.
Recommendation: If you plan on serving sparkling water or soda alongside beer, a standard manifold won't work because the beer will over-carbonate or the soda will be flat. You must use a secondary regulator setup to drop the pressure for specific lines.