Just getting back into my Nuvo 16g and trying to finally set it right, and buy the right equipment for it. So far I have bought Steves In-Tank media baskets and the fuge basket, waiting on the underwater fuge light, Tunze ATO for nano, AI Nano lighting with controller and a small Hydor pump for more circulation. Now I am trying to figure if a RKL or Apex needs to be in my future. The problem I am having is the why would I need it? 1. the ATO and lights have their own controller that will be used. 2. I would like a mp10 also, however it also has its own controller. So the only thing I can see me needing the RKL for is heater backup and possible a PH monitor. Plan for the tank is not crazy just some zoas, polys, maybe a BTA and two small snowflake clowns. am I missing something here. If all I am doing is a heater back up there has to be other options for this as well, right?
Controllers---Do I really need one?
- Thread starter Dapozer
- Start date
Honestly, no...you probably don't need one. You could go with something like a Ranco controller that allows you to set the temp so that you rely on that unit rather than the less reliable built in thermostat on your heater.
The thing is though...you will spend close to $80 on a Ranco. An entry level Apex Jr or RKL will cost you only slightly more, and you get the added benefit of detailed temperature monitoring...as well as the convenience of being able to control your fuge light and pumps. It's nice to be able to push a button and shut things off when your doing maintenance, rather than fumbling with the plugs while your hands are potentially wet.
You can add me to the list of people that say "I never wanted or thought I needed a controller...but once I got one I don't know how I got by without it." If your main concern is accurate temperature control (I have had 3 heaters fail and get stuck on in the past 2 years), then your alternative is going to be slightly less expensive than a full controller. I'd recommended getting an entry level system, then give it some time to decide whether you would like to purchase additional modules. With the right modules (accessories) you can let the controller take care of the AIs as well, so there are always options to expand.
The thing is though...you will spend close to $80 on a Ranco. An entry level Apex Jr or RKL will cost you only slightly more, and you get the added benefit of detailed temperature monitoring...as well as the convenience of being able to control your fuge light and pumps. It's nice to be able to push a button and shut things off when your doing maintenance, rather than fumbling with the plugs while your hands are potentially wet.
You can add me to the list of people that say "I never wanted or thought I needed a controller...but once I got one I don't know how I got by without it." If your main concern is accurate temperature control (I have had 3 heaters fail and get stuck on in the past 2 years), then your alternative is going to be slightly less expensive than a full controller. I'd recommended getting an entry level system, then give it some time to decide whether you would like to purchase additional modules. With the right modules (accessories) you can let the controller take care of the AIs as well, so there are always options to expand.
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). Looks like more research and time needed.Here is a post I had over on r2r so I just copied it. Not all of it applies here.
I guess if you spend that type of money and have a problem you would like to to know you can get your problem solved in a quick phone call. Rk did not like my halides at all and kept shutting down my system which Rk says was due to interference with the cords. Had to leave messages for Rk to call back which took a couple days. Which isn't good when your system shuts down and reboots a couple times a day. I've called apex about my system just to add more modules and got someone right away. I have yet to have a problem with my apex. If I have a question on compatibility I can email apex and get an answer usually within a day. People have sent their salinity probe back to Rk and have never gotten it back that's just not the probe either. As for upgrade if you want your stuff to do basic on off than get a reef keeper but if you want more control to your system get an apex. The apex phone app is great and can be programed by your phone. While a third party app for Rk only allows viewing and on off. There is so much potential with apex such as leak detection, salinity, modules to program your leds and control mp40s. You can program lights to run with the seasons and sun rise and sun set and it automatically adjust every day. Basically I look at the Rk as an expensive timer and that's it. The dashboard on a Rk looks like early 2000s while the apex looks updated and sleek. I have Web cams programed to my apex. I use a gaming adapter for Internet for my apex. If you want a controller that is last year's model 2 years ago or do you want one that is up to date. Ask anyone that's had both they will tell you to go apex.
I run dosing pumps, lights, reactors, pumps, orp and pH with mine. And can adjust programing with just my phone from anywhere.
Forgot to add apex comes net ready via ethernet while the Rk has to have a net module sold separately.
sent from your home
KCCO
I guess if you spend that type of money and have a problem you would like to to know you can get your problem solved in a quick phone call. Rk did not like my halides at all and kept shutting down my system which Rk says was due to interference with the cords. Had to leave messages for Rk to call back which took a couple days. Which isn't good when your system shuts down and reboots a couple times a day. I've called apex about my system just to add more modules and got someone right away. I have yet to have a problem with my apex. If I have a question on compatibility I can email apex and get an answer usually within a day. People have sent their salinity probe back to Rk and have never gotten it back that's just not the probe either. As for upgrade if you want your stuff to do basic on off than get a reef keeper but if you want more control to your system get an apex. The apex phone app is great and can be programed by your phone. While a third party app for Rk only allows viewing and on off. There is so much potential with apex such as leak detection, salinity, modules to program your leds and control mp40s. You can program lights to run with the seasons and sun rise and sun set and it automatically adjust every day. Basically I look at the Rk as an expensive timer and that's it. The dashboard on a Rk looks like early 2000s while the apex looks updated and sleek. I have Web cams programed to my apex. I use a gaming adapter for Internet for my apex. If you want a controller that is last year's model 2 years ago or do you want one that is up to date. Ask anyone that's had both they will tell you to go apex.
I run dosing pumps, lights, reactors, pumps, orp and pH with mine. And can adjust programing with just my phone from anywhere.
Forgot to add apex comes net ready via ethernet while the Rk has to have a net module sold separately.
sent from your home
KCCO
