Which Apex to Buy

[AZReef13]

Hello, I am considering buying an Apex system for my IM40 mixed Reef, Not sure which version I should get? what are the advantages of Apex over ApexEL? Not sure what other info I need to provide to help with this? Tank has been running for little over 2 years.

Equipment: AI hydra 26HD, AI Nero 5, IM Mighty Jet, IM Wavelink, IM NuvoSkimm, Aqua medic reefdoser EVO 4, Aqua smart ATO

Thanks for all the help.

 

[W1ngz]

 

[Crabs McJones]

The primary difference between the two is the EL is NOT going to have a 0-10V output (controlling lights, pumps, or anything else that requires or can use 0-10V controls)
The EL will also not come with a salinity probe or an ORP probe.

If you're like me and have no equipment that is 0-10 volt controllable and don't really care about salinity monitoring or ORP monitoring, the EL is perfect for you It's what I went with

 

[W1ngz]

 

[LobsterOfJustice]

It is also worth nothing that the functionality which the ApexEL lacks, can always be added in later with the purchase of various modules.

 

[litenyaup]

If you budget doesn’t allow for the full version now get the el as you can purchase the modules as you can.

 

[AZReef13]

Im not sure I understand 0-10 Volt, for lights pumps?

Is a Salanity Prop and ORP probe that important?

 

[Crabs McJones]

Im not sure I understand 0-10 Volt, for lights pumps?

Is a Salanity Prop and ORP probe that important?

Some lights and pumps that are variable (pump speed, or light intensity) can be controlled solely by the apex. Kessil A360WE is an great example. The color and intensity can be controlled by the 0-10 volt port.

 

[nitrodude]

Im not sure I understand 0-10 Volt, for lights pumps?

Is a Salanity Prop and ORP probe that important?

0-10v output controls dimmable lights like kessils

Orp isnt very important unless you are running ozone.

Conductivity I dont trust the actual reading so much, however large swings can indicate a problem with your auto top off.

 

[AZReef13]

Ok, I think I get it now. But I heard or read not sure where that Apex, dosent work well with AI Hydra's and all IM pumps (both are adjustable) Do I need that?

 

[W1ngz]

If you don't want to control your lights and pumps, you don't need 0-10v control.
Anything controllable that anyone (except Neptune) makes will have a controller either included or as an option.

 

[AZReef13]

Thank you all

 

[SuncrestReef]

If you budget doesn’t allow for the full version now get the el as you can purchase the modules as you can.

Based on retail prices, the total cost for the Apex-EL + PM1 + VDM + probes is about $129 more than the cost of the full Apex which includes those features. So there is a bit of a price advantage if you buy the full model up front, but it's not too much. But the extra modules will also take up more space in your cabinet since they're not built in to the base unit.