I agree.I dont agree with the sentiment of this post.
Is the Apex worth it? No idea. But plenty of people have beautiful tanks that aren't automated and didn't cost a fortune. Despite the trend of spending a ton of money on equipment and corals, money doesn't equal success in this hobby.
But that is extremely dependant on the reefer. Someone, likely in this thread, said ... " i have tried reefing the low-tech way, and the hi-tech way and am more successful in the hi-tech way" ... I am in that same camp as that poster. For me the hi-tech way works better. I have reefed in 2008-2011 when automation and even LED lighting of today's day and age were things of dreams.
I am glad to be back in the hobby as the technology has advanced manifolds and many new vendors have come in with neat products like Phytoplankton reactors - which was all DIY back then.
You may be able to spend a lot less and create a better reef than many. But then, sir, you may be a Reef God, and I am a napulii