Controller for tank

dwilliams87 · May 4, 2012

After alot of research I think I want to get me a controller. I have a 20 gallon nano. 1 Heater, I really want some protection. 2 Led Drivers. 1 Refugium Light. About to add some moonlights. What do you guys recommend for my size setup? I also want the option to expand/upgrade in the future, but if it's a big jump in price I'd be fine with a permanent installment for this particular tank. Any suggestions are greatly appreciated.

Cigar Sherlock · May 4, 2012

Hey Daniel,

I just plugged in my Reefkeeper Lite today that I got from another MTRC member. I will say that it was fairly easy to set up my light timers and calibrate the itemp probe. I still have to figure out how to set up my heater and will probably update the firmware before attempting to do it. I'm impressed that this particular RKL has been through 3 owners and still operates well. I like the digital aquatics website and was able to find the system manuals on their support forum. I'd say it's a toss up between the RKL and Neptunes Apex Jr...unless you have mega bucks and go for the elite versions of either. There is another controller out there that is very code user friendly if your into custom codes etc...can't remember the brand right off. I can't really give you an opinion of module usage, pump control, PH etc as I haven't experienced these yet, but so far I like the RKL. Those are my two inexperienced cents

gmoney243 · May 4, 2012

Far as I know the apex allows for more controls such as dimming your led. I'm not sure which is better as I own neithee but general concensus is that apex are better. Or at least more features. Ill take either one tho

Sent from my Vortex using Tapatalk 2

pickupman66 · May 4, 2012

The only drawback to the rkl is the fact you are limited to 4 modules Max.

Sent from my SGH-I897 using Tapatalk 2

Dowtish · May 4, 2012

Reef angel is the code friendly controller. If you are looking into upgrading and expanding you will be happier with an apex. The reef keepers are nice, but I find their website and support lacking. The forum is the their only saving grace.

Sent from my DROID X2 using Tapatalk 2

pickupman66 · May 4, 2012

Dowtish said:
The reef keepers are nice, but I find their website and support lacking. The forum is the their only saving grace.

Sent from my DROID X2 using Tapatalk 2

andywe · May 4, 2012

pickupman66 said:
The only drawback to the rkl is the fact you are limited to 4 modules Max.

Sent from my SGH-I897 using Tapatalk 2

Bang for buck an amazing value....

As with the Apex, the RK line can dim. Be aware there have been ALOT of grumbling about APEX service and support. Seems Kurt may have reached saturation for what he can handle as a one man shop. THe same things peeps used to complain about with DA is now being heard loudly with Neptune.
DA went through a lot of pain but it has gotten a lot better over the past 18 months. So if service is a big factor, I have to say DA currently wins that one. Next month, we can re-evaluate lol.