Aquarium computer/controller

WhiteTang · 07/31/2014, 04:11 AM

Hi everyone!

I have recently been playing with the idea to add an aquarium controller. As a result I started searching what was available. To my surprise I found out that a controller is veeeeery veeeeery expensive (just like everything else in this hobby).
Can anyone recommend a cheap solution that is not "ugly" and by that I mean it is not a sore to the eye when installed and has a decent amount of features like the more expensive options?

mcgyvr · 07/31/2014, 05:20 AM

define "expensive"
You can get a reef angel for $269
or a reefkeeper lite for $120

Of course if you told us exactly what you were trying to "control" then it would be easier to recommend one for you.

JasonD · 07/31/2014, 07:27 AM

Reef keeper lite very impressive for what you pay for it. I control my 120 reef, with it no problems.

I consider an aquarium controller one of my most important pieces of reef equipment.

Portsie · 07/31/2014, 02:41 PM

Without knowing what you want to control, it will be pretty hard to get any good advice.

hilgert · 07/31/2014, 06:04 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by WhiteTang

Can anyone recommend a cheap solution that is not "ugly" and by that I mean it is not a sore to the eye when installed and has a decent amount of features like the more expensive options?

If you want features like the expensive systems then you'll need a expensive system...I researched long and hard before deciding on an Apex.

Do a titles-only search on "Reefkeeper vs Apex" and you will see most would agree. With my Apex I can control everything from my iPhone anywhere in the world (even on flights to Europe if the pane has Internet!!!), it has interfaces for the popular lighting systems, pump systems, etc. And customer service is awesome.

psyrob · 08/01/2014, 05:05 PM

+1 reefangel: have had one for three years and it is the best...constantly adding features, the support on the website is outstanding...

07/31/2014, 04:11 AM	#1
WhiteTang Registered Member Join Date: Mar 2014 Posts: 435	Aquarium computer/controller Hi everyone! I have recently been playing with the idea to add an aquarium controller. As a result I started searching what was available. To my surprise I found out that a controller is veeeeery veeeeery expensive (just like everything else in this hobby). Can anyone recommend a cheap solution that is not "ugly" and by that I mean it is not a sore to the eye when installed and has a decent amount of features like the more expensive options?

07/31/2014, 05:20 AM	#2
mcgyvr Registered Member Join Date: Sep 2003 Location: North Carolina Posts: 20,050	define "expensive" You can get a reef angel for $269 or a reefkeeper lite for $120 Of course if you told us exactly what you were trying to "control" then it would be easier to recommend one for you. __________________ Who me?

07/31/2014, 02:41 PM	#4
Portsie Registered Member Join Date: Jul 2012 Location: New Brunswick, Canada Posts: 741	Without knowing what you want to control, it will be pretty hard to get any good advice. __________________ 90g corner overflow, 33g sump, Apex, Vertex IN-100, 2x MP-10w ES, 1X MP-40w, Tunze Osmolator, 60lbs Caribsea oolite, 85lbs live rock, 4x54w T5 with LED moonlights

08/01/2014, 05:05 PM	#6
psyrob Registered Member Join Date: Sep 2004 Location: Burbank, CA Posts: 508	+1 reefangel: have had one for three years and it is the best...constantly adding features, the support on the website is outstanding... __________________ We have engaged the Borg.... Current Tank Info: 60 gallon mixed reef, 4X54 T5s, 10 gallon frag tank, Reefbreeders PAR38 led bulb, Euroreef Skimmer, wp25 pump ReefAngel controller

07/31/2014, 07:27 AM	#3
JasonD Registered Member Join Date: May 2001 Location: San Diego Posts: 1,079	Reef keeper lite very impressive for what you pay for it. I control my 120 reef, with it no problems. I consider an aquarium controller one of my most important pieces of reef equipment.