AquaController Jr - Input please

[ek9vboi]

I am really looking into buying this:
http://www.neptunesys.com/aquaController2.htm

I was going to buy the PinPoint pH monitor, but for around 100 bucks why not spend a little more (150, oh well) and get a bunch of other things like temp. & heater control, wavemaker, etc!

What i wanted to know is if the Direct Connect 8 (DC8) is just a regular outlet or does it have something in it that the AC Jr. controls it? Well, overall for those who have and use them, input please.

What comes with it, what I should buy as extra options, how easy is it to use.

 

[Rogger Castells]

The DC8 is a controlled outlet strip, each of the outlets are assigned for a specific programable function.
I like the idea of the AC Jr however be ready to spend a little more than $50 extra to be able to use all the capabilities of this great controller.
The Ph probe is not included, the dc8 is an extra, however you could always upgrade little by little.
I like the Aquacontroller jr. but I prefer the Reefkeeper II. The only reason for my preference is that I like the compact size of the controller that allows a nicer custom installation, you could actually drill a hole in your stand or canopy and install the base unit flush in your tank since the cable is in the back or bottom.
Check them out,
http://www.digitalaquatics.com/

 

[bawla47]

i have an aqua jr and its the brain of my tank, controls everything. but like rogger said, your definately going to spend alot more to fully utilize it.

Itll be around the same price as the Reefkeeper 2(a little cheaper). If you can find a group buy, that would be your best bet.

The aqua jr is very similar to the RK2, except its still a bit more advanced. It can control your tank lighting by the season, simulating nature more. (shorter lighting hours in winter, longer in summer)

as well as simulate nature with varying water temps through out the year (82 summer, 78 Winter)
it can also simulate the moon cycle.

I personally like the display ALOT better on the RK2 then the jr. The individual lights for devices on and off is nice also. the jr uses little icons that you choose the device to be(if its a water pump, you can choose a little wave symbol etc)

if you had the RK2 cut out in a hole on the side of your stand, that would look awesome i bet. i like the backlighting on the RK2.

so it comes down to looks, vs functionality. I have my jr in ym stand, so it wasnt a big deal to me. i also picked it up used for 225$ with 2 probes, and the dc8.

 

[bckane]

Ive already questioned about a group buy and this is the reply from digitalaquatics....:
Hey Guys,

Thanks for your interest in the RK2. However, at this time we are not able to offer a group buy for RC members. We have made a real effort to keep the overall cost of the RK2 down for everyone. By doing so, all our customers benefit from a lower price, including RC members!

Scott B.

 

[bawla47]

yea, youll get a decent break with Aquacontrollers but not RK's ACjr group buys happen alot, i think it was almost the same price for what i got new, after the group buy discount.

OM products do group buys too i think 10 or 20%

 

[bckane]

Im ready for a group buy on aquacontrollers then

 

[ek9vboi]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=7631558#post7631558 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by bckane
Im ready for a group buy on aquacontrollers then

Let me know if you came across anything. I am in the process of setting up... again. This is what happens when your a no0b and listen to anybody. lol

 

[bawla47]

http://www.premiumaquatics.com/Merc...n=PROD&Product_Code=C-NEP-ACJR&Category_Code=

just 1 i came across, comes with the serial port upgrade also though, which depends if youll use it. its the backlighted model also, which goes for a bit more.

its 300 total though, still cheaper then the RK2, with alot more options.

270 if you can knock off the serial port upgrade

rk2 is about 315 with probe.


you might be able to email them to ask if you can buy it w/out the serial port for cheaper.

heres a big thread on people talkin about the diferencecs between the RK2 and aqua jr. to help you decide.
http://www.reefcentral.com/forums/s...did=869576&highlight=aquacontroller+group+buy


i honestly really like the display on the rk, especially if you can flush mount it, but if it doesnt matter and inside your stand, then acjrs the way to go.

 

[ek9vboi]

Thanks bawla47, some great info.

 

[bckane]

I just placed my order....Thanks Jaymie for making me spend more money..lol..I did the premiumaquatic group buy...Total 313.69 shipped

 

[bckane]

They call it a group buy but dont see any discount.?

 

[ek9vboi]

I was thinking the same. You do however get "Serial Port Upgrade"

I know on their website it is 250 for the Unit and DC8.

Then you have to the the pH sensor, which is like 40-50 bucks.

 

[bckane]

mine was 316.00 with temp probe PH probe serial and DC8...plus shipping

 

[bawla47]

yea, i just looked and it isnt much of a discount really, about 30-35$ off
I guess if your going to use the Serial port then its alright.

I swear ive seen better group buys before.


sorry abotu that brian, but man cant wait to see your tank upon completion. Im still in debt with my tank. lol



Ill post if i find one in the future and bump up this thread.