What's the Difference in all the Salt Mixes

[RussC]

The last time I mixed salt, instant ocean was the go to. Now there are a dozen or more different kinds of mixes and all seem to say they are the latest and greatest. Really, what's the difference?

 

[mcgyvr]

Not much really..
Just different parameter levels.. Some with higher alk/cal/mag for "coral" based tanks... some with other organics... brand loyalty/marketing fluff/voodoo magic,etc..

I pick whats the least cost and most available to me.. IO..

 

[Ron Reefman]

Yup, spending extra money for the high end salts with voodoo magic extras that make your coral grow better is probably a waste of good money. IT Reef Crystals for me.

 

[Wes8888]

+1. What Ron Reefman said.

 

[Denbf58]

cost and what is available at the local fish store i use red sea coral pro and i find i have to dose less calcium vs oceanic.

 

[Valentini89]

I agree, and I use Instant Ocean.

 

[ComforablyNumb]

I use basic Instant Ocean, best value. If you want more calcium, alk etc much more cost effective to just add them separately.

I am sure the manufacturer markup on the "premium" salts is higher than on the big volume basic editions.

 

[hkgar]

http://www.thatpetplace.com/salt-mix-guide

 

[AlSimmons]

They're all pretty much the same once you start dosing IMO. While I am using RC at the moment, I still have to use Kalkwasser to keep up. Same goes for Coralife salt, Kent salt etc.