Controller?

[danimalK]

I'am thinking of getting a controller for my tank but am new to them and have no clue which ones are good? I have a 125 gallon tank with a 40 sump and need help deciding on a good controller. Thanks in advance

[keepswimming]

can't go wrong with a full apex system by neptune systems, GREAT PRODUCT! MAKES LIFE SO MUCH EASIER.
http://www.neptunesystems.com/produc...roller-system/

[DaveMorris]

I would recommend either an Apex or a Reefkeeper Elite. The Apex has more available modules and ongoing development. The RKE system while great, seems to be stalled where it is at. Time will tell if Digital Aquatics will actually continue making more modules and updates to their system. When you do get a controller I would reach out to Russ at Reeftronics.net (RussM here on SDR). He is an expert with the Apex system and runs a website built solely for controllers.

[specvjeff]

I have owned both a Reef Keeper and an Apex. I am currently using an Apex. There are pros and cons to each. I like that Neptune is a far more innovative company. Digital Aquatics makes a slightly more user friendly product but the Apex will become more user friendly when Fusion is released.

Jeff Saurwein
SDMAS President
SDReefs Moderator
Sent from my Samsung Galaxy S4 using Tapatalk Pro

[danimalK]

I don't have a ton of money, so I was thinking of getting the apex jr. is this a good product and I was wondering if anybody got this and you were able to upgrade with it, not get a whole new controller but just use this and add to it?

[specvjeff]

You can start with the junior and upgrade as your budget allows.

Jeff Saurwein
SDMAS President
SDReefs Moderator
Sent from my Samsung Galaxy S4 using Tapatalk Pro

[danimalK]

I was looking at the jr and it said it has a power bar with 4 outlets but can u just hook up a new power bar or buy another one, if say i need more outlets? thanks for all the help guys.

[keepswimming]

yes, you can purchase a energy bar 8.

[specvjeff]

Yes they are modular so you can add any module you want as you go. I have the EB8,and the ALD module. I plan on purchasing another EB8, WXM, and the conductivity module and probe. The Apex is definitely more expensive but I think it's worth it. They are constantly upgrading their firmware and coming out with new modules and creative ideas.

Jeff Saurwein
SDMAS President
SDReefs Moderator
Sent from my Samsung Galaxy S4 using Tapatalk Pro

[danimalK]

Looks like I shall start saving up for a controller. Thanks for all the info and help guys. I'm probably gonna start with the jr and just upgrade as I go.

[RussM]

Keep in mind that the entry-level ApexJr has a limitation of 4 expansion modules plus a display. With all of the different modules available, it's easy to max out a Jr. For that reason I suggest going right for the Apex or Apex Lite instead of the Jr. The big brothers of the Jr can handle more modules than anyone could conceivably use.

[keepswimming]

I am going to chime in on this again! I would save for the full apex also because after you purchase a eb8 and i ph prob/any expansions you are at the same price of a full apex but you don't have a display unit. The apex is nice because you can control and monitor it from your phone, iPad or computer even if you don't have the display.

[RussM]

Actually, Apex Jrs began shipping with a display almost a year ago. Too many purchasers decided later that they wanted the display but balked at the cost. So, Neptune turned the Jr into a package with display at a good price break compared to the cost of the Jr and display separately.

[danimalK]

so go with the full apex from the get go, it will be cheaper in the long run? and more modules? thanks for the help.

[specvjeff]

Russ is the go to guy on anything Apex. What he says goes