Apex Jr or Apex Classic?

tnc112105 · May 6, 2018

Looking to monitor pH and temp primarily.

Tank is a Reefer 450 with a Reef Breeders Photon 48, 2 x Gyre 250's, Reef Octopus 150 space saver Skimmer.

I'm not looking for automated water changes or other super fancy features. I don't have a lot of space to work with unfortunately to set up something like that.

I'd like to save a few bucks if possible by getting the Jr, but I don't want to buy the Jr and wind up having to upgrade a few months from now anyway. Hoping to hear feedback from people who own these models.

Thanks in advance!

Dr. Reef · May 6, 2018

With the new apex 2016 out and lots of people buying those. Tons of apex classic are being sold all the time now. I would just go with it.

mtraylor · May 6, 2018

I personally wouldn't bother with with the Jr. Once you learn what all the controller can do for you...you will out grow it. JMO.

Deereefer · May 11, 2018

I have a complete classic apex system for sale if interested. Ph and temperature probe included. $350 plus shipping cost.

The River · May 11, 2018

I did the same thing a few months ago when looking into the 2 systems. I ended up getting the Jr used for $150

The outlets should be a big factor, so think ahead what items need to be on an outlet. Remember that if it is controlled by a module there is no need for that plug to be in the Apex outlet. I have my return, skimmer, heater and dosing machine on the 4 outlets.

My radion and vortech are running via WXM module and my ATK has the FMM running that. So these are plug into regular surge protector.

So I did need to buy PM1 for PH and a probe... for ease lets call that another $150
PH monitor was important as I will start a dosing regimen soon.

So for $300 (only adding items together to compare the difference to buying classic) I have almost what the classic can handle but lost 4 outlets and already maxed the 4 out I have. Also remember the classic allows more modules as the Jr has a limit (wasn't issue for me with the new 7 allowed)

If I had to do it again I would buy the classic used in good shape for $300-350 price range, especially if their probes are in good accurate working condition!