Controller preference.... again I'm sure

Mr_Banana_Pants · Nov 25, 2016

I'm sure this has been done a million times, but I figured I'd try to get the opinion of the masses. I just purchased a 75 gallon tank with Corner overflow, and I'm in the process of setting up my next system. I figure it will be about a year before I build the stand and sump, as well as purchase all the necessary equipment for it.

So my question to everyone is what brand of controller do you recommend?

I've been doing my research and it seems like the reef keeper is an OK intro, but I'm looking for something that will give me email alert if something is wrong when I'm not home. Also was wondering if anyone has tried the new vertex controller, and if so how it compares to the Apex.

RobinsonReef · Nov 25, 2016

I bounced between the new vertex and new apex about a month ago and decided I didn't want to be the guinea pig for the vertex as it's still kind of in open beta. It doesn't have a full set of accessories either. I went with apex 2016 and wouldn't have it any other way.

Elementalj · Nov 25, 2016

I still like my reefkeeper. It was less expensive and pretty easy for myself to figure out. Apex has a better customer support mechanism but you pay in advance for it.

andrew james · Nov 25, 2016

I use my apex for everything. I do automatic water changes, auto top off, control all my pumps and powerheads turn lights and heaters on and off and more. But the real power is the ability to create conditional statements. I'm able to build in redundancy to all my systems. This reduces issues and give me peace of mind. No sure if Cerebra can do all of that just yet.

Mr_Banana_Pants · Nov 25, 2016

andrew james said:
I use my apex for everything. I do automatic water changes, auto top off, control all my pumps and powerheads turn lights and heaters on and off and more. But the real power is the ability to create conditional statements. I'm able to build in redundancy to all my systems. This reduces issues and give me peace of mind. No sure if Cerebra can do all of that just yet.

How do you do automatic water changes with it?

andrew james · Nov 25, 2016

I have a DOS setup to my saltwater storage it pumps into my DT 3700ml of saltwater 3x day and the other side of the DOS removes 3700ml 3x day. so basically I do a 3 gallon water change every day.

My ATO runs in pretty much the same way but uses a float switch to turn it on and off.

Waboss · Nov 25, 2016

I ran an Apex for a long time, but just recently decided to switch over to GHL. I like the support from GHL (now that they have a US office) and I'm tired of having to script everything on the Apex to get "advanced" controls. I can do everything (mostly) on the GHL from drop down menus. Plus I already have 2 of the GHL 4 head dosers and they work very well (and don't take up anywhere near as much space as the DoS units).

Give me a few months and I'll be able to tell you which one I like more.....

Willz · Nov 25, 2016

GHL is awesome. I wish I would have held off on my controller purchase (Apex). Their customer service is second to none and the interface is so easy. I use their Doser II and it is so easy to use.

cbear44 · Nov 25, 2016

I'm about to pull the trigger on a Profilux 4 - I think. Talk me into it!

I won't be using it as a lighting controller (unless a Kassil interface appears) . Main features I want are:

- Leak detection in 2 areas (basement sump and upstairs DT)
- Monitoring pH, Temp, Salinity, (ORP optional)
- Dosing
- Future Ca reactor control with pH Monitor
- Notifications (email or SMS)
- Skimmer, heater

Looking at the software guide it looks like some of these are "plug and play" but others aren't quite built in. Am I looking at this wrong?

Waterjockey · Nov 25, 2016

Mr_Banana_Pants said:
How do you do automatic water changes with it?

Just hook up two peristaltic pumps to a saltwater reservoir and control their timing with the apex to both pump the same amount (in and out). If you search my username you can see a post where I just did that this week.
If you use the DOS two pump unit it's dead simple. I used two brs dosing pumps.

The other method is to use a dual head pump like a masterflex or stenner. You don't necessarily need a controller to do it with a dual head pump.

Mpierce · Nov 25, 2016

Apex. Start Jr if you want to keep cost down or go classic.

Mr_Banana_Pants · Nov 26, 2016

So GHL... first time I'm hearing about it... what are the benefits above apex?

reefwiser · Nov 26, 2016

Everything on a GHL is built into to one unit so you don't have to add a box to add functionality. You can add a card like you do with a computer. GHL has great customer support. Example if you have their lights they are making upgrade pucks for users that have their older lights so they can get the new pucks that just came out.
Heavy duty power bar construction. Simple programming

Salty1962 · Nov 27, 2016

APEX is the way to go. Look at this thread for more info.
http://reef2reef.com/threads/which-controller-do-you-use-and-what-do-you-have-attached-to-it.275604/

Breadman03 · Nov 27, 2016

I chose Apex, but I would say either Apex or GHL Profilux.

ReefRocker · Nov 27, 2016

GHL for those who want to experience another level of reliability and software stability. Not having to learn coding is a huge plus. Their products are industrial grade and are overall built better. Many research intitutions and universities around the world use the Profilux. If it is good enough for them, it's good enough for my tank.

I think that Profilux 4 looks so much more professional than the new Apex.

Elementalj · Nov 27, 2016

ReefRocker said:
GHL for those who want to experience another level of reliability and software stability. Not having to learn coding is a huge plus. Their products are industrial grade and are overall built better. Many research intitutions and universities around the world use the Profilux. If it is good enough for them, it's good enough for my tank.

I think that Profilux 4 looks so much more professional than the new Apex.

Where did you buy?

ReefRocker · Nov 27, 2016

I pick up my products from GHL USA. There are also other online stores that carry their products; Premium Aquatics, Aqua Cave, Aquarium Specialty.

Elementalj · Nov 27, 2016

ReefRocker said:
I pick up my products from GHL USA. There are also other online stores that carry their products; Premium Aquatics, Aqua Cave, Aquarium Specialty.

Groovy [emoji41]

FirstContact · Nov 30, 2016

Sold my six year old Apex classic and got a brand new Vertex Cerebra at no cost to me. It's still in beta. Beta testing has been fun. For me the controller is on par with the new Apex but offers a lot more features and extras that are sold separately for the Apex, and all outlets are relay controlled. The Cerebra also comes with a display from which you download updates from the internet. The equipment is high end and has a high quality look and feel to it. I did not like the plastic look and feel of the new Apex.

GHL sure, but everything they market is a lot more expensive.