which controller?

shyland83

New member
I plan on buying a calcium reactor so i will first be needing a Ph controller. I want a controller that will also control my temp, and my lighting. Does anyone have any suggestions or input? I am looking at the aquacontroller Jr. and the Reefkeeper 2. Price seems similar, but i think the rk2 comes with hardwired plugs and i need to buy them extra with the aquacontroller??? i do not want to use x10 controllers. other choices are also welcomed, thanks.
 
I have the aquacontroller jr I love it. Can't speak for the rk2 or the new rf elite thats coming out soon though.

If cost is an issue the jr has a package deal where you can get it with the dc8 no neead for the x10 controllers now I dont even think they make them. The dc 8 can control up to 8 sockets mine controlls my lights, sump light, fans, my closed loop and sump pump. Eventually I will use it to control ph as well but I dont have a calcium reactor it keeps my temp very stable though turning on the fans and heater when necessary.

I think it can control up 12 or 16 outlets Im pretty sure 16 a second dc 8. plus you can add a wavemaker unit if you choose and moonlights. The AC Pro and III obviolsy have a lot more options and I think are wireless, but at a high price of course.

Of course down sides you have to pay for an extra dc 8, or hvduty outlet, you have to pay for advanced software if you choose, and you have to pay extra for wavemakers and moonlights.

But overall for 250bucks without ph probe it was ready to go to control temp lights and turning on and off pumps for feeding.

This is my third tank and in general a controller is the best purchase I have made to keep a very stable envirnment. For a cost effective way to control the tank the jr works if you want to spend more the ac pros have a lot more features the rk2 and new elite as well. Then of course there are a few others out there which are amazing but very expensive.
 
i paid 279 for my ac jr that came with the dc8, temp probe, serial port, and lab grabe ph probe. i love it. no experience with the other controllers.
 
I went with the RK2 when I installed my calcium reactor.I programmed and pretty much haven't touched it since.I probably should recalibrate the PH probe though.
Works great and looks good too.
 
I have the AC Jr as well, currently controlling lights, PH, temp and CO2 on Ca reactor. Only issue I have is the clock drifts if not connected to a PC otherwise I love mine.
 
Scott - If I remember correctly from a previous post I think you were using the 2 part solution from Bulk Reef Supply. I am currently setup using that as well and have it setup using a drip method which seems to be working ok for controlling CA and ALK. Just curious why you are looking to switch.
 
yeah i am using the 2 part. I just don't want to deal with dosing every morning. and i dont really have room to put drip containers anywhere i'm pretty tight on space. i'm going to put the reactor in the room behind the tank.
 
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