WTB: ReefKeeper Lite (RKL)

Jennie , You may want to consider an Apex lite as they are IMO a better controller and can also be expanded in the fiture if needed. The majority of club members now use Apex over RKL or RKE so that should tell you something. Just do some research and see if it meets your needs like the RKL does.
Bill
 
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I did do a little research last night, and the Apex Lite is like $375 (and I can't seem to figure out if that includes the temp probe or not). Just to run a heater and temp probe, that seems a bit steep! LOL

I thought I'd start with the RKL, since that is in my budget and does what I need it to for the time being. Can always upgrade down the road.
 
Jennie,

Both have benefits and drawbacks. I prefer RKL/rke, especially having met all parties involved between the two companies, bang for buck, especially on the entry level, RKL hands down a better value. Of course just my opinion. Research like bill suggested.
 
NeedBiggerTank said:
I did do a little research last night, and the Apex Lite is like $375 (and I can't seem to figure out if that includes the temp probe or not). Just to run a heater and temp probe, that seems a bit steep! LOL

I thought I'd start with the RKL, since that is in my budget and does what I need it to for the time being. Can always upgrade down the road.
Click to expand...

The APEX Lite includes the temp probe with it. If you plan on upgrading later, just do it now as you will be happier with the APEX in the long run. Plus you can control 8 devices out of the box, so lights, pumps ect.

If you dont plan on upgrading later and only want it for the heater and lights, then the RKL will be fine. Or just get a heater controller and get the APEX later.

Too many options
 
The Apex is what I would go with. As Andy said they both have their benefits and drawbacks. However, the Apex is what I see more and more people switching to. Out of the box, they have many more features and for long term value, make the most sense. In my humble opinion.
 
The Apex Lite is quite a chunk of change! I understand that it has the networking built-in, 8 outlet power bar,, etc. and is more comparable to the RKL model 3, and then some...

My lights from AquaticLife already have built-in timers for each set of bulbs (3 timers - actinic, 10K & lunar LEDs) - so with my current fixture, a controller doesn't add anything I don't already have. Although.... I could use it to control my refugium lights. :)

I bought an auto-topoff controller for when we install a sump - would the RKL or Apex do away with the need for this seperate controller? If so, at least I could sell that to recoop part of the cost.

I really appreciate everyone's input here!
 
i actually just set my RKL up 5 minutes ago to shut off my sump return pump if the water in the sump got to low. with the right module "SL1" or "SL2" you could setup an ATO and i also plan to do that. i have the SL2 module which you would have to buy in addition to the head unit kit... "i believe"
 
Correct Smyrna...the difference between an sl1 and sl2 is 1 supports an orp probe, and a 2 supports a salinity probe.
 
Does the Apex Lite require an additional module as well? Or will it controll an ATO out of the box?

What I'm trying to figure out is if the Apex Lite is $375 and the RKL Plus w/ Net module is $375 - are they "equal in featues? If they cost the same, is the Apex the better deal overall?

Marine Depot has a special now for RKL + SL1 + PH probe for $229. That seems almost too good to pass up! Although I dwfinately see the meritts of going with Apex.

Decisions, Descisions...
 
True - didn't think about that. They came with the ATO controller I purchased - but the whole thing works together... the float switches from JBJ wouldn't work with any other controller.

I suppose I could just keep the JBJ ATO (instead of spending more money) and just use it seperately.
 
NeedBiggerTank said:
Does the Apex Lite require an additional module as well? Or will it controll an ATO out of the box?

...
Click to expand...

The Apex is a much better value out of the box as far as features to price go.

However, obviously the entry price of the RKL is awesome, too.

The Apex or Apex Lite 6 inputs on it you can use for ATO with a mac serial cable ($8 on eBay) and a little DIY.

The RKL cannot do ATO out of the box, but if you add an SL1 or 2, you will have 2 inputs you can use that have special connectors on them.

Hope that helps. :)

Also, on the Apex Lite vs RKL, they're not even in the same category IMO. If nothing else, the 4 module limit on the RKL is killer. The Apex Lite does 264 modules I think.

Don't forget you can buy used Apexes and Apex Lites. :) I'm not sure how much used Apex Lites are going for, but the Apexes are around $350 to $400. I would think Lites would be around $300 to $350.

Brandon
 
Also the Apex net features are plug n play. It allows you and to program it sitting at your computer via your home network. RKL does not, even with the net module you still have to connect it with the us cable. The RKL is a pain to program with the head unit.

Like I said earlier, if your even considering a controller, you will be much happier with the Apex. I own both controllers and the Apex is by far superior.
 
+1 I have had both and agree Apex is superior in many way's. And Customer service at DA is non exsistant, Waiting over a year for a new probe is not good customer service and they lock their threads so no one hears the complaints! JMHO
Bill
 
Take a look at the DA support site from there web page and read of some of the Issues that people are having with their Customer Service B4 you buy! You may change your mind about saving a few bucks.
Bill
 
And then look at the Apex forum and see they also have tons of issues...everyone has their demons...Jennie, APex light is like RKE basic...comparing the WKL and APex light is just wrong. I prefer DA< DA has a much larger install base (almost 10,000) and will bee around for awhile.

As I mentioned before, don't let others tell you your preference. Zach and I both suggested you research :-)
 
Not to get this battle started again ;) but I'm curious why you think the RKL vs Apex Lite is a bad comparison? The packages stated (level 3 and Apex Lite) are VERY comparable in price. That would generally be the common denominator people use.

Also, how many Neptune systems are out?

Again, not trying to start a war... just curious. :)

Brandon
 
no wars brandon..I maintain she should research beyond this thread and get what fits her need. :-)

Last I heard (at Macna) was neptune APEX was in the low 2000's). Now I expect that has increased as well.

I also do not rank APex light and RKL in the same category due to module limits on the RKL. I has nothing to do with price in that regard to me. To me having 64, or 200+ module capability is marketing fluff.....I think most users like us would never use more than 10....I am sure someone somewhere may be using 50+..but it just isn;t usually what hobbyist level folk do hehe.
 
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