Question on Kessil/Ecotech

[DangerDave]

Hello R2R! I am hoping that one (or more!) of the reef experts here might be able to offer me some guidance, or at least some opinions to help me make a choice for my new set up. I've searched the forums for this, but not really seeing what I need, I apologize if my poor searching skills missed an obvious answer.

I've decided after much reading, that I'm going to purchase the new Aquatic Life Hybrid LED T5 fixture for my new tank. While this is far from my first tank, it is my first reef tank. Saying I have a lot to learn is an understatement. I like how the Kessil AP700s look in the tanks I've seen. I have friends who swear by Radions, and their tanks look good too. They both seem fine for my purposes.

I like the idea of manageability, and I've already received my APEX for this tank. So finally to my question. Is either management tool better? I'd have to use the Kessil app for the AP700s, or I could use the Apex to control the Radions. Which management tool is better in regards to functionality and ease of use in a reef tank?

Dave
The Dangerous kind

 

[McArcher]

I'm not sure the Aquatic life hybrid is set up for the ap700. I know they have a bracket for the a360s, which you can control with your Apex.

 

[Crabs McJones]

I use the Kessil AP700 and use the app to control it. I don't have an Apex or any other aquarium controller though. The thought of having one thing to control it all does seem rather appealing though; using the Apex to control lights, pumps and everything else. Instead of having the apex app, and then having the Kessil app. Unless you went with the Kessil A360's. Those can be controlled by the Apex as well. But I love my AP700, and others will say that Radions are best. Its all a matter of personal preference, what you are looking for aesthetically

 

[Crabs McJones]

I'm not sure the Aquatic life hybrid is set up for the ap700. I know they have a bracket for the a360s, which you can control with your Apex.

I believe in BRS's video they said that the AP700 can be mounted in the fixture I've looked into doing this myself

 

[nautical_nathaniel]

I would go with the A360we if you're going to use the Apex and the aquaticlife hybrid fixture. As others have said, the A360we's can be hooked up to the Apex and you would have better adjust-ability of how far the lights are spread apart from each other with that system

 

[Radman73]

What size system? A360's are good but the AP700 is definitely better IMO. Of course, it's more than double the price too. I use an Apex and have an A360W on one tank and AP700's on another. Lighting is something you tend to set and leave, so I don't feel that there's much to lose by going with the AP700. The odd time or three per year you tweak it shouldn't come into play as being missed with the Apex. In any case, the Kessil app has been easy to use but not as easy as the Apex control over the A360.

I can't speak much to Radions as I've never owned one, only seen them in person. The looked like nice lights and by all accounts they are. I just really liked the Kessil shimmer and the color blending you get. The Radions had obvious disco ball effect. This was prob a Gen 3 though, not a Gen 4. I don't think you could go wrong with either company.

 

[bif24701]

BRS has stated the new Aquatic Life T5 system will accommodate the Kessil AP700 currently.

 

[DangerDave]

What do you guys think about the apps for the lights, is control on the kessil or Radion on apex better, or have a better user interface? The rep confirmed they will fit.

Thanks [emoji1303]