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Unread 06/14/2019, 10:47 PM   #1
Systemwizardinc
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aquarium controller

i am looking for a aquarium controller that's not going to cost a arm or a leg needs to do Temp Lights PH and more please help me


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Unread 06/15/2019, 08:38 AM   #2
mcgyvr
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Specifically define "and more"...
You can easily get a standalone heater controller (ranco or inkbird) and simple lamp timers for the lights and be done for under $100.. Or one of the wifi power strips on amazon for like $25-30 instead of the lamp timers..
Unless you have a calcium reactor ph monitoring is rarely useful..

I recommend against a controller for you based on what you have stated so far


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Unread 06/15/2019, 09:09 AM   #3
bearpeidog
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I personally think the Apex is great, although pricey. It can grow with you. They sell and ApexEl which retails around $500. NOT CHEAP - but you do get cloud access, power control, ph, temp etc. If you find you need more, you can add modules.

There is a large fan base for it and lots of advice and support if needed. I’ve run them for over 10 years (older line back then) and wouldn’t have a tank without one.

Good luck in your search!


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Current Tank Info: 180 gallon Starfire, 3-Radion G1, Tunze with 7091 Controller, 2- ecotech mp40s, MP60, Panworld 250 return pump, TunzeATO, XP2000ss Reef Octopus Skimmer, Theiling rollermat
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Unread 06/16/2019, 07:06 PM   #4
RioReefr
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I personally use the Apex Jr. It is relatively cheap at $200 and includes 4 outlets and the very reliable temperature probe. My AI Prime, Aquamai Wavemakers and SMART ATO use their own controllers, so I don't need one controller do everything. For me, it controls the return pump, heater and chiller and skimmer. I have a webcam connected to it, so I can see my tank on my cell phone. I also got it setup to use Alexa.

Personally, my pH doesn't vary much other than a water change and there really isn't much I can do if it goes from 8.3 --> 8.5. I have a digital hand-held probe for that along with the salinity so really those 4 outlets are just fine for me.

As others have said, it is pretty much the status quo for controllers so there is lots of information for programming stuff.

It was a $200 well spent in my opinion.


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Unread 06/17/2019, 08:47 PM   #5
no1bubba
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Things i dont use

I have an apex jr. I no longer use. $100.00
A UV sterilizer


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Unread 07/20/2019, 06:55 PM   #6
jimjam35
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Quote:
Originally Posted by no1bubba View Post
I have an apex jr. I no longer use. $100.00
A UV sterilizer


Idk if this is Allowed if not splease let me know but

Idk how buying things works on this site but just read this post and saw I said u have a apex jr for sale??.


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Unread 07/22/2019, 12:10 AM   #7
brody83
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I bought my Reefkeeper two years ago, and until now it works great.


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Unread 07/22/2019, 07:17 AM   #8
shred5
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Well since DA closed their doors the only thing cheap out there I know of is the GHL Profilux mini.
I have not used it but is supposed to be a solid controller. Not really too cheap though in price either but the lowest you will get right now for those features.


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Unread 07/22/2019, 09:24 AM   #9
mcgyvr
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http://www.reefangel.com/
"low" cost controller with may of the bells/whistles as the $$$ guys and a fairly simple "hobby control" access


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Unread 07/22/2019, 12:59 PM   #10
rocklobster1
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Apex is the best bet for reliability and cost if you want to control all of that stuff. Question is do you really need to? You can get away with just a timer and temp controller if needed.


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Unread 07/22/2019, 04:29 PM   #11
saphosbro
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I second the Apex even though it does not necessarily meet you "cheap" requirement. I started out with just the base unit and have added overtime. I now have over 20 modules controlling 3 tanks on a single head unit. The hardware is top notch and the support guys are amazing, they will help you solve anything and the possibilities are endless with apex.


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Unread 07/23/2019, 08:50 AM   #12
no1bubba
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APEX jr CONTROLLER

I have an Apex Jr. controller I don’t use. It has been a while and I forgot what I used it for. PM me


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