Please help me make a wise purchase -- Apex Jr, Ranco, Other?

[Rakie]

My original post was accidentally put in the wrong section and I couldn't delete it. Sorry if you've seen this already.

I was given a $300 worth of Gift Cards for Amazon for my bday, I've got a 12g Nano right now and plan to run SPS. I would eventually upgrade to a 29/40/60g Cube within a few years.

Apex Jr. Controller As a novice with a 12g I'm not sure I'll use most of it's capabilities now, but in the future I would. That said if it's as customizable as everyone says I'd gladly program tons of stuff for it to do.

Ranco Temp Controller. This is basically what I'd use the Apex Jr for most right now.

 

[Kentech5]

I recently acquired a full apex and I love the thing. Even with its module limits I think a Jr would be great.

 

[gone fishin]

I have used a Ranco for quite some time and have not had any issues. I have never used an apex or anything similar.

 

[Bent]

If you are buying the apex just for temp control, then get the ranco. It's 50 bucks.

buying an apex just for that reason is a waste of money.

 

[PirateLove]

What is the purpose of Apex jr and other "controllers." I don't get why people buy them unless you are running T5s and need them on and off at a certain time.

 

[Rakie]

If you are buying the apex just for temp control, then get the ranco. It's 50 bucks.

buying an apex just for that reason is a waste of money.

That's not all i'd be buying it for, but as a noob with a Nano that is still cycling... That's all it would be used for at first

 

[boojumsnark25]

Have you looked at Digital Aquatics? I've used their ReefKeeper Lite before and loved it. I believe they also just came out with a whole new product line recently as well

 

[hkgar]

What is the purpose of Apex jr and other "controllers." I don't get why people buy them unless you are running T5s and need them on and off at a certain time.

I have a full Pex with added modules. What does it do:

Monitors and controls the tank temperature
Monitors around the sump for leaks and sounds alarm and email if there is a leak and shuts down all pumps, plus awc, ato and dosing.
Controls my auto water change
Controls my auto top off
Controls my echotech MP40's
Has controlled my previous LEDS
Turns on my t5's
Turns on my MH
Turns on cooling fan based on temperature
Monitors my salinity
Controls my calcium reactor - monitors reactors ph
Monitors tank ph
Shuts down return pump and skimmer at feeding time
Controls the dosing of vinegar.
Previously used it to control my dosing of 2 part (ALK and CA)
Sends my an email and sound alarm if any pre-established parameters are broken, i.e. ph to high or low.
I can access all parameters status in real time via my smart phone or office computer and make changes if needed.

I have no idea why I bought the lazy thing.:idea: