Black vs. Orange Label Apex

[crs751]

I am seriously looking into moving from my current controller to an Apex. Would someone explain the differences between the black label and orange label classic Apex's? I am looking at buying used but don't want to purchase a controller that won't receive long term support from Apex or that puts limitations on the modules it will control. Thanks for the input.

 

[MaiReef]

Then you need the APEX 2016 because the new Trident will only work on that and I would imagine future items will need the updated memory and processing capability of the new one.

 

[Bob Escher]

The 2016 Model ( orange and gray) has a different energy bar, has wifi built in and various other updated features that with the older black one you don’t get either not at all or needing additional modules ( like one link) buy the 2016 model

 

[crs751]

Ok thanks for the input.

 

[Bob Escher]

Please feel free to ask anything more

 

[crs751]

Well I do have a follow up. While I understand the 2016 controller is the latest and greatest, I see that Apex still supports and sells the Orange label controller that is listed as the Classic. My system is, I think, requires basic control and monitoring like pH, Salinity, ORP, light control, heaters, etc like most reef systems. I don't intend to use the Trident system, at least not in the long run. So based on my needs would either the orange or black label controller be a good purchase for me. I'm currently using a DA controller that while it works for my system, has recently caused me to question its reliability. So do firmware updates apply to either the black or orange label Apex's? Finally, budget is a great concern and the 2016 Apex is a little pricey for me. Thanks.

 

[PaulPerger]

I, too, have looked a the Apex system and frankly, I've drooled. I'm a total gadget geek and it is so tempting. But right now, I have some family demands that are limiting my available "fun money", so I too, looked for a budget friendly option.

I read somewhere that the new 2016 model is backward compatible with all previous modules, etc. So, I purchased an Apex Jr used for about $125 which will give me control over the basics and the ability to do some monitoring. I don't mind running a Cat5 cable to my tank to connect it to my WiFi, so I'll still be able to control everything from a tablet I am going to dedicate to system control, and from what I've read I can actually set up the system through my router set up to be able to access it via the web, which means I can control it and monitor it from my phone when away from home.

For me, I know I'm going to get the basic controls I want, and I believe I will be able to get some ability to monitor and control while away. (If it turns out that this is not true, or I misunderstood what I read, I'm OK with that.)

But bottom line. Right now I will get the control I need (i.e. the basics, temp, lights, pumps). I can expand by buying additional monitoring modules which I know will be compatible with the 2016 should the budget allow me to upgrade sometime in the next few years, so it's a win-win.

 

[Js.Aqua.Project]

If you are looking at monitoring Temp, pH, Salinity, and ORP it ends up being the same cost, if not cheaper, to buy the 2016 over the classic - at least at retail prices - as you would need to add a collection of modules to do this with the classic while all the probes/ports needed come standard with the 2016 (plus if it matters to you, Wifi is built in to the 2016).

From what I understand, Neptune Systems is still pushing firmware updates for the classic as well, but I would expect this to slow down or stop all together as they focus more on newer pieces of equipment that require the higher processing power of the 2016, like the Trident for daily Mg, dKH, and CA testing.

 

[Bob Escher]

Well I do have a follow up. While I understand the 2016 controller is the latest and greatest, I see that Apex still supports and sells the Orange label controller that is listed as the Classic. My system is, I think, requires basic control and monitoring like pH, Salinity, ORP, light control, heaters, etc like most reef systems. I don't intend to use the Trident system, at least not in the long run. So based on my needs would either the orange or black label controller be a good purchase for me. I'm currently using a DA controller that while it works for my system, has recently caused me to question its reliability. So do firmware updates apply to either the black or orange label Apex's? Finally, budget is a great concern and the 2016 Apex is a little pricey for me. Thanks.

Then the Classic will work for for you. You will need add on modules (depending on your lights, ORP)

 

[crs751]

Thanks

 

[LobsterOfJustice]

Functionally, there is no difference between black label and orange label apex classic. The black label will be an older unit.

 

[crs751]

So if Apex pushes firmware updates that are for the orange label classic they will apply to the black label as well? Are there limitations on number of modules for the black label Apex?

 

[LobsterOfJustice]

My understanding is that other than the external box that it’s in, they are the exact same apex.

 

[buxton.nc]

I have a black label on my 10 gallon innovative marine and and an orange label in my 20 gallon innovative marine. The black label is a little bit older than the orange label, otherwise they are the same. Same firmware, web server, and Fusion capabilities. Only difference is the black label versus the orange label.

 

[Sleepydoc]

My understanding is that other than the external box that it’s in, they are the exact same apex.

While they have similar capabilities, they are not the same. Off the top of my head, the differences/improvement of the 2016 vs the 'classic' model include:

• The Orange Apex 2016 has a newer processor with more memory. One benefit of this is that it allows over-the-air firmware updates instead of having to connect to a computer.
• Built in WiFi
• Works with the EB832 - allows individual outlet power/current monitoring and programming logic based on this
• EB832 has LED status lights for each outlet (not a huge deal but nice to have)
• EB832 also has 3-1Link ports and 2-24V controllable DC outlets. You can add these to the classic version, but they require purchasing an extra module.
• Includes a salinity probe (can be purchased separately for the classic)
• Different internal web server (I haven't seen the two side by side to compare them, so I can't say if one is better than the other)
• The classic comes with a display; it has to be purchased separately for the 2016 model

I have a 2016 model, and I will say that the extra DC ports on the EB832 are nice. I have my LED sump lights, some fans and a PMUP ATO pump hooked up to them, saving 120V outlets, meaning I only need one energy bar.

Of the currently available and announced peripherals, only the EB832 and Trident are not compatible with the Apex Classic. Other things like the COR pumps are compatible but you will need to buy a separate 1link module.

 

[LobsterOfJustice]

While they have similar capabilities, they are not the same. Off the top of my head, the differences/improvement of the 2016 vs the 'classic' model include:

• The Orange Apex 2016 has a newer processor with more memory. One benefit of this is that it allows over-the-air firmware updates instead of having to connect to a computer.
• Built in WiFi
• Works with the EB832 - allows individual outlet power/current monitoring and programming logic based on this
• EB832 has LED status lights for each outlet (not a huge deal but nice to have)
• EB832 also has 3-1Link ports and 2-24V controllable DC outlets. You can add these to the classic version, but they require purchasing an extra module.
• Includes a salinity probe (can be purchased separately for the classic)
• Different internal web server (I haven't seen the two side by side to compare them, so I can't say if one is better than the other)
• The classic comes with a display; it has to be purchased separately for the 2016 model

I have a 2016 model, and I will say that the extra DC ports on the EB832 are nice. I have my LED sump lights, some fans and a PMUP ATO pump hooked up to them, saving 120V outlets, meaning I only need one energy bar.

Of the currently available and announced peripherals, only the EB832 and Trident are not compatible with the Apex Classic. Other things like the COR pumps are compatible but you will need to buy a separate 1link module.

OP is not asking about the difference between apex classic and apex 2016. OP is asking about the difference between apex classic with the black label and apex classic with the orange label.

 

[scuzy]

The two are exactly the same. Just the label is different colors.

 

[crs751]

This is all good information. I might be leaning toward the 2016 unit. I like the fact that a lot of the separate modules are included with the 2016 unit.

 

[dgrigor02]

The harder quesiton is if apex 2016 is worth upgrading an existing apex classic.

To me, for someone that doesn't have an apex already, I think its a no brainer to go with the apex 2016. The life cycle of the product and newer modules/innovations may not be compatable with classic ( the above kh tester being one that comes to mind ).

Now, if you get a super good deal on a used apex classic then that may take some consideration if on a tight budget.

 

[Newb73]

If you are looking at monitoring Temp, pH, Salinity, and ORP it ends up being the same cost, if not cheaper, to buy the 2016 over the classic - at least at retail prices - as you would need to add a collection of modules to do this with the classic while all the probes/ports needed come standard with the 2016 (plus if it matters to you, Wifi is built in to the 2016).

From what I understand, Neptune Systems is still pushing firmware updates for the classic as well, but I would expect this to slow down or stop all together as they focus more on newer pieces of equipment that require the higher processing power of the 2016, like the Trident for daily Mg, dKH, and CA testing.

If all the 2016 brings to the table is trident tnough, it isn't worth upgrading until sone serious sales hit for the 2016....

Or maybe a combo unit that includes only a 2016, an EB832 abd a trident that is cost adjusted for not having all the extra stuff i already own.

I might consider that.

Or even better, just a 2016 and Trident combo.

I spent $800 on apex gear this year and have every accessory they make other than a dissolved oxygen module.

The 2016 by itself brings very little to the table.

If i were buying new then no question id get a 2016.

As an existing owner though....