A high-volume low-pressure spray system includes a hose disposed between a compressor and a spray gun. The hose acts as an accumulator when the spray gun is deactivated. A check valve is disposed in a fitting connecting the hose to the compressor. The check valve includes a spring that applies a nonlinear force to a downstream end of a valve member, such that the valve member tips open in response to the pressure differential, providing a variable flowpath opening through the check valve.