Personal opinion only here---as I've used IO and Reef crystals on my prior tank, and I'm currently using red sea coral pro (and will begin mixing it with regular red sea salt). I like red sea salt because it mixes much cleaner/no residue left in the bottom of the container. It also is mixed and ready to be used in 2 hours. Like others have stated, I think you can have a successful reef tank with which ever brand you choose. Just be consistent with your maintenance schedule.
1st part of your statement: How much water are you mixing at once and what pump?
2nd part of your statement: I agree!
I have several buckets and mix everything 5 gallons at a time NO residue what so ever with IO and I use a maxjiet 400 *I believe*
* and I've used IO with weekly water changed on a smaller tank with amazing results...





