Reef controllers neptune apex alternative?

[Conrad kurze]

Im looking for a similiar unit in a better price range for a new tank setup in a 75 gallon range. Any pointers? Thanks guys.

 

[MaiReef]

I have looked and honestly it really depends on what you want to control and monitor. The GHL and the APEX seem to be the most used systems with the APEX having more of its own accessories. For the $799 and what you get the APEX is the best price. However if you want less than what that gives you, then there are many options. They vary based on what you want.

Reef Angel is more customization and a bit cheaper, but you have to do the work and programming yourself.
GHL and APEX have lower controller versions than the Profilux 4 and the APEX 2016, but they are less ready or not compatible with future accessories for future items.
Digital Aquatics has a descent system, but by the time you get it close to the APEX 2016 it already costs more.

 

[Conrad kurze]

I just want a basic monitor for ph alk temp and be able to do moonlights automaticly. 800$ is a way out of my price range. 5 to 6 is more realistic.

 

[Ryan115]

If you are interested in a DIY controller, check out the reef-pi thread in the DIY forum. It is fully open source and being developed by users here on the forum. It comes out much cheaper than other controllers. Also it is completely modular, so you only buy and add the parts that you are interested in for your tank.
Currently it controls: power outlets, temperature, ATO, lights, dosers and camera. In this next year additional planned support for other water sensors.

 

[Water Dog]

You can find a full featured Apex Classic in the for sale forum on a regular basis for around $350 give or take.

 

[Breadman03]

Tunze makes the SmartController 7000, though it is more basic than the Apex.

 

[MaiReef]

It is usually the alk monitoring that has the more cost associated with it. Ph, temp and moonlights can be done for under $400. I am thinking in a used system you could get all of it under $500-$600, but you will be replacing things. These monitors have an upkeep cost so saving the extra initially is just a few months.

 

[shred5]

I just want a basic monitor for ph alk temp and be able to do moonlights automaticly. 800$ is a way out of my price range. 5 to 6 is more realistic.

If you are looking for a basic controller the Reefkeeper lite can not be beat. Out of all the controllers I have used over the years this is the most stable and reliable. It can do the same as most controllers with add- ons but then you might as well buy the others.

But if you are looking for basic function like controlling lights, heaters, pumps it can not be beat.

Apex used to have a lite system but did away with it.

You can always look at used to save money like the Apex classic.

Personally most equipment now a days comes with a controller or one can be purchased that can do more than most system controllers. I use my controller less and less.
Only thing I use mine for is heater and dimming my lighting and there is a controller for my lights that actually can do allot more than my Apex or my ReefKeeper.