Is there any difference besides dilution?
Which one cost more in the long run?
Why are there two products to pick from for the Triton Method?
Can we use Base Elements with no dilution?
Will Triton Base Elementz be replaced by Base Elements (for the Triton Method)?
Base Elementz has a ratio of 8 to 1 and Base Elements Core7 is 7 times stronger than Base Elements. Does all this mean less product and more money?
Gene
Hi guys.
Great questions.
I don't have the new Core7 elements yet or firm pricing on them but here is what I know so far.
They are made to ultimatly replace the traditional Base Elementz but not immediately. Since many people are attached to the elements there simply is no need to make a sudden and forced switch. The intent isn't to give people an option of which to run with the triton method- its simply to ease over to a new and improved version. The Other Core7 product that was created for use with other methods isn't really an option to consider for those running Triton.
Both the existing Base Elements and the Core7 for triton method are of the same recipe, just the Core7 is more concentrated and much more user friendly. This is an improvement, a refinement of an already great product.
Dilution: The traditional base elements can be dosed at full strength presently except for part 1 since that is a powder and requires 9.33 liters of Ro/Di water to reach saturation. What I have seen people do is to dose parts 2, 3a and 3b directly out of the bottles at 1/10th the dosage rate of part 1 which needs to be diluted as mentioned above. So long as you program your dosers correctly you will be fine. This is where personal customization of the method is enjoyed. This can get a little tricky with small tanks running poor quality dosers. When dosing a very small amount of liquid daily the margin of error increases. For this reason also, dilution is preffered. The simple reason that triton recommends that all four parts be diluted is to make things simple to follow for a wide audience. If the protocol was to do the 1/10th process on parts 2, 3a and 3b many people might misunderstand the directions resulting in major issues.
The core7 will be offered in two flavors. One is for use with the Triton method- just like now, meaning a strong algae filter and no water changes for mineral replenishment. The second is for use with other methods- it lacks trace elements which are added separately via water changes, dosing of misc products, etc. I still don't know that much about this particular product but will share more info as I learn more about it.
My understanding is that the product will actually be cheaper than the existing base elements to run. Let me get my notes straight and get back to you on this though.
