The SP1 is the better marker. For nearly the same price you get a better valve (spool valve) a regulator, full auto electronics, a better feed neck, and an in general better marker. The only advantage to the A5 is the cyclone feed, which shoots faster than a regular hopper, by using excess CO2. It also does not feed as fast as the sp1 can shoot an has a tendency to jam in the winter without squishy paddles.
The tippmann A5 is supposed to be used in paintball.
It is cheaper to get the A5 then the 98 with Cyclone. They will be identical otherwise, except for looks.
This statement is half true but half untrue. The tippmann A5 and 98 custom do indeed have different threads. But after the A5 tippmann made the X7 which has identical threads to that of an A5. Because of this a barrel with "Tippmann A5" threads, will fit on a tippmann x7, but will not fit on a tippmann 98 custom.
No. the thread pattern is NOT the same
Yes.
There are no manufactured ones
There are no manufactured ones.
No. the cyclone feed should tap into the gas line already built in for a response trigger. you should be fine.
Yes, just make sure to use a 4500 psi tank.
No, the screw set is off and there is holes for the cyclone feed.
Opsgear.com. look up A5 shrouds on the bottom left
In theory it should, but it all depends on the aftermarket producer. If Tippmann produced it, it most likely is universal. If it is not however, it is most like A5 specific.