Confused about Ecotech Products

[PoppyCorn]

I'm thinking of picking up 2 Radion XR15 G4 Pros and 2 MP10s. Do I need the Reeflink and what are the downsides of not getting the qWD and just getting the WD?

Radions + 2MP10 wQD + Reeflink
Radions + 2MP10 wQD + NO Reeflink
Radions + 2MP10 QD + Reeflink
Radions + 2MP10 QD + NO Reeflink

I'm guessing the first package is the best since it includes all the gimmicks but am wondering if it's really necessary.

On another side note, do you think a Hydra 26hd is better for a softie and lps tank? I work a lot so I don't want SPS which requires high maintenance.

 

[KMench]

Hydra is made by the same people that make the Radions. Either way you go, I think you’ll be happy. I have three Hydra 26s. Went with them over the ecotech because they’re a bit cheaper and have built in WiFi capability instead of needing the reeflink. In the end it all comes down to personal preference with the higher end lighting imo

 

[PoppyCorn]

Thanks. Radions aside, does it make sense to get the wireless Vortechs?

It seems like the wireless vortechs can sync/antisync with each other. But can't I just get 2 non-wireless ones and put them on different settings?

 

[CindyKz]

IDo I need the Reeflink and what are the downsides of not getting the qWD and just getting the WD?

You don't "need" the reeflink to use the equipment, it can be operated manually. To my knowledge there are no programming capabilities without the reeflink though, unless you use a controller.

(says the woman who owns a couple MP40s but not radions).

ETA, the wireless vortechs will link with each other so you can run them in synch or antisynch mode, but that's all they do. They still have to be plugged in and operated with a hand held, wired controller (makes not entirely "wireless"). Yes, you could buy two and run them separately.

I had two MP40s for over a year that I just ran in antisynch mode, until I got an apex. Have never used reeflink.

 

[reefwiser]

Reeflink will make your life easy. Other wise you have to use a usb plug to program the lights and the buttons and knobs to control the pumps. Also you can load lighting and wave programs from other hobbyist using the Reeflink.

 

[ca1ore]

Agree that you certainly don't need the reeflink. The radions can be directly connected via USB to your computer and programmed that way. Likewise the vortech pumps can be programmed from the driver box. I think being able to link the two pumps together and run them in opposing modes is nice, but again, hardly necessary. Keep in mind that even if you buy the wireless pumps, you can still get the wireless cards later on for the same $50 each. Installing the cards is trivial.