Someone PLEASE school me on controllers...

[jdavenp3]

Okay, I have been in the hobby for a while, took a hiatus, and now I am back.

Even when I was in the hobby I was confused about all of the ins and outs of a reef controller (Reefkeeper, Apex, etc.)

What all can I do and how hard is it to control one of these things.

My tank is going to consist of a dimmable led light fixture, Vortech MP10, heater, and the return pumps in the tank.

Is it worth it for me to get a controller? Either way, I would still love to hear the knowledge about them so I ca make an informed decision on whether i want one or not.

Thanks everyone,
Josh

 

[redstang]

I use my Apex to control power to everything I use on the tank, manage my ATO, control my light intensity, and vary the flow from my MP10. At Christmas time I use it to turn my tree lights off and on. I am able to monitor, control, and now program my tank from my iPhone or iPad. IMO the ability to control and program remotely is what sets the Apex far apart from the reef keeper. If monitoring is all you're after than the RK might be an option.

I spent a couple months investigating the Apex and RK before buying. The positive reviews on the Apex were overwhelming. RK were still mostly positive. Almost anyone that had experience with both preferred the Apex.

Still being skeptical I went with the Apex JR to start for $150. I've since added an EB8, WXM, PM1 with break out box, and VDM. It would have been more efficient to just buy the full Apex from the start but I really have no regrets. The buy as I went and as I needed was very convenient and appeased a VERY skeptical wife.

 

[dine]

apex all the way. if you stop by like we talked about you can check out the apex as well. i have the light version which i think is the correct by for "most" people.

 

[jdavenp3]

Red, half of what you said to me should have been in ancient latin; because I did not understand a bit of it when you got to the parts that you upgraded haha.

The Apex seems to be very appealing to me. I had no clue about the Iphone compatibility. That is awesome stuff. Maybe I need to fork out the cash and do it right to start with.

Dine, I am going to make it down one day for sure. Finals and getting this tank in and set up has had me home bound for the past few days. Tomorrow the live rock should be in, so I had to find a holding container with flow for it. On Friday all of the big boy stuff comes in.

 

[fishlips]

I can tell you what not to buy, RKL. I own one. LOL

 

[spankdog]

I love my apex. Just added a few float switches and now I have an ATO system too. Also very nice to have a constant PH and temp readout.

 

[gthockey18]

Go Apex, you'll love it.

 

[jdavenp3]

I really like the features and ideas of the apex but I think it may be overkill for my system right now. It is only going to be a 30g rimless w led and I have no immediate plans for any reactors or even an idea of what top off I want.