Neptune Apex systems?

[cdemoss01]

Are the Neptune Apex systems worth the buy? I do like the fact that I can organize my electrical with one energy bar. But the entire system with the energy bar, sensory kits, and testing systems is like 1300$. Is it worth it? What do all of the systems do? Alternatives?

 

[MichaelReefer]

I Have mine nearly 2 years with no issues. I think its definitely handy. Helps you notice swings and such.

 

[paul01609]

Im more than happy with mine

 

[cdemoss01]

I Have mine nearly 2 years with no issues. I think its definitely handy. Helps you notice swings and such.

I might buy one but im not sure if its worth it or not quite yet...

 

[blaxsun]

Happy with mine as well. +1

 

[cdemoss01]

Happy with mine as well. +1

Are there any alternatives? Such as energy bars, or monitoring systems?

 

[buruskeee]

If you don’t need the testing, you can get the Apex system without the Trident and save half the cost.

 

[Matt L]

I have three tanks on mine with automated testing and dosing. I wouldn't go back to not having it.
Here are some features I like, this is one of my vids. I have my Apex programmed with "Alexa" for hands free control.

 

[BZOFIQ]

Nowhere near perfect but possibly the best out there at the moment.

Also lookup Hydros and GHL for comparison.

 

[therootcause]

One I got from a friend and the other came with a tank I bought second hand. I would say that having a controller that is visible when you area away from home is worth the buy - doesn't have to be APEX. I also like that I can give access to close friends with APEX's to view or control the functionality.

Electrical usage and cost calculations:

Charts:

 

[rtparty]

Totally depends what you want and need. I love my Apex. Especially the Trident. I hate testing water and have no time for it so having the Trident is worth it for me. Someone with loads of time, a 20g tank, and likes testing won’t find the same value.

Hydros and GHL are alternatives. I’ve tried them all and wouldn’t touch these two again.

Kasa power strips can also work for certain things.

 

[therootcause]

Are there any alternatives? Such as energy bars, or monitoring systems?

Hydros is a new alternative.

 

[cilyjr]

I've been using a Neptune systems controller since the aqua controller 3 was released. I have had the old style Apex and now the most recent.
I would not run a tank without a controller system of some kind.
Overall, I like the Neptune systems apex but it has not been without its problems. I have had to send in the base unit a few times over the years. That said, I've been using their products since 2000.
There are other controllers available that I would consider looking at if I wasn't so deep into the Neptune system brand at this point. One of them being the Hydros controller.

 

[backbayreef]

Happy with mine -- I have one on every tank and will always have one in future tanks. The Trident subscription model can get expensive, esp if you're running 3 of them! dooh

 

[SliceGolfer]

Are the Neptune Apex systems worth the buy? I do like the fact that I can organize my electrical with one energy bar. But the entire system with the energy bar, sensory kits, and testing systems is like 1300$. Is it worth it? What do all of the systems do? Alternatives?

This may be a great place for you to start your research:

 

[cdemoss01]

@everyone
thank you.

 

[Pistondog]

Are the Neptune Apex systems worth the buy? I do like the fact that I can organize my electrical with one energy bar. But the entire system with the energy bar, sensory kits, and testing systems is like 1300$. Is it worth it? What do all of the systems do? Alternatives?

I like the basic system and have 3 energy bars, very handy.
I dont think the testing system is necessary.
IMO, Nothing changes that fast that needs to be tested multiple times per day.

 

[Stevorino]

I had 3 over the past decade, 2 of which I still actively use.

Cannot give Apex enough praise. Because of the other demands in my life, I wouldn't be able to keep a mixed reef without it.

 

[cdemoss01]

Used Apex systems or tridents for cheaper price??? Where??

 

[Lbrdsoxfan]

Used Apex systems or tridents for cheaper price??? Where??

Look in the for sale section... they come up often.