Any Good Calcium Reactors?
- Thread starter Tank2379
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Tank2379
Well-Known Member
The CR510 when it's available is $250 plus free shipping,
Insane320
Active Member
Most people are going to say the "best" is whichever one they chose to buy and only have experience with that one reactor.
Geo is going to be the most popular. It's a simple, effective reactor at a good price. I have a LifeReef which is basically the same with a few minor differences.
Personally, I don't like their pH probe placement, so just because of that I'd recommend the Geo over the LR.
But if you really want to know what the "best" is, you would be hard pressed to beat the Dastaco for features. But all those features and automation will cost ya!
If you don't need the extra features and automation of the Dastaco, the Geo or LR will handle any hobbyist tank just fine. They are both a simple and proven design that has been around for years.
A calcium reactor is super simple. All it requires is consistent flow through the media with a way to inject c02 to control the reactor's pH level.
I'd say that more important than the actual reactor is two things... 1) The regulator, and 2) the feed pump.
Most of the problems people have are with one or both of those, NOT the reactor itself.
For the reg, many choose to use the Aquarium Plants Carbon Doser. It's super simple to use and accurate. Good for those who don't want to DIY. The downside is the reg is a cheap/low quality single stage.
If you can follow simple instructions and have a little patience, you can DIY your own high quality dual stage reg by getting the parts off eBay. It's all detailed in this thread...
How to build a CO2 regulator for your calcium reactor.
For about the same price, you will end up with a reg that will last you a lifetime and be ultra stable/accurate.
Not to mention beautiful.
For flow, most reactors come with a cheap Rio hobby pump or similar. Some people feed off their manifold but that's not a good idea at all for a CaRx.
The best way to go is to get a Cole-Parmer Masterflex peristaltic pump. Or any peristaltic pump that is made for continuous use, but the CP are hard to beat for quality, and they are rebuildable.
Again, eBay and some patience is your best bet. But you should be able to find a pump, head and tubing for around $200-300.
Here's the thread you'll want to check out. Most of the info you need is in the first few post, with links to all the minor parts you'll need.
Official: Masterflex Calcium Reactor Setup Thread
Good luck!
2 years after this response do you think the Dastaco is the best product? setting up a 320 reef?
d2mini
5000 Club Member
I’ve seen them running locally and they’re a pretty sweet bit of kit.
That said, they’re too rich for my blood.
I just got a new Geo. [emoji6]
I think all will be pretty equal. Just make sure to get a double chamber, good pump to run and a good regulator. The rest is just icing.
Insane320
Active Member
Thanks for your advice and time.
Insane320
Active Member
Thank you for your prompt response.
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