Which is a Better Controller?

[n2585722]

Profilux>Apex>ReefKeeper>ReefAngel>others

While the Profilux is awesome, its lacking support which is a main thing when it comes to conrollers. I had a RKE and switched to Apex which I'm very happy with so I just bought a second one for the office Tank

RK is limited to the number of modules and unless you upgrade to archon, you will eventually want internet capability and more than 4 plugs... most likely you will need two outlets for dossers (Ca and Alk) and 1 or 2 for lights and circulation pumps... Cant control the heater, fan and so on in my opinion, so I say go with a Apex.

Also since the most popular controller is Apex, it will retain its value in-case you will look into selling.

The RKL is limited to 4 modules. The NET and HUB modules do not count toward that module count. The RKE has a limit if I remember correctly it is 63 modules. I don't know of anyone that has reached the real limit on the RKE. I am not sure on the Archon but it would be at least the RKE if not more. There is also a 8 outlet module now the PB8.

 

[DaveMorris]

While I am a Digital Aquatics tester and Archon owner, I really do love the Profilux Touch interface. It looks fabulous.

 

[Ligershark]

I have a apex jr and I have never got the APP to work on my phone apparently I have to setup port forwarding on my router which time warner wont let me do.

don't use the app. go to apex fusion website on your phone and make a shortcut on your home screen on your phone. i have an apex jr with no display and had the same issue. the app does not work properly as per apex tech support.

 

[Damon]

Apex vote here also, as I had reefkeepers, and became honestly annoyed with what I could not program it to do. I kept asking on their forum, and I cannot remember what it was, but it wasn't something insanely difficult, and they finally said it could not do it.. Many shut downs randomly.. Then, the last straw for me, was a firmware from Hell. Went fine as far as the update, then, woke up the next morning, it was holding my heater element on and the tank was 96 degrees.. No alarm, no sound, no email notification.. Nothing! Fried tank! That was the end of the keeper.. And this was after had alarms, notifications, etc set(I even double checked manually afterwards.. They just didn't come on)..

I switched over to the apex, and I have been happy ever since.. To me, it's not worth the little savings.. Especially now, with fusion, and it basically holds your hand.. I still like the old interface for manual programming. But the fusion quick programming and templates are a snap..

And I'm not sure what anyone else has faced, but with fusion, grab the ip from the controller, send a test(or diagnostic), make sure it says ok, and log in to fusion.. It's that simple and no app required(the app, honestly doesn't do what fusion can and will do anyhow) for your phone..

But with all that Neptune comes out with, and it's stability, I won't change or even consider it, unless something goes unimaginably wrong in the future..

 

[Virtualbasil]

What phone are you using? I can't pull up fusion on my iPhone

 

[Ligershark]

What phone are you using? I can't pull up fusion on my iPhone

iphone 5 running iOS 8. it is not an app. use safari to go to apex fusion.com and log in.

 

[Damon]

What phone are you using? I can't pull up fusion on my iPhone

Lol, that might be the problem.. The iPhone.. Just kidding.. Lol..

But I use a note 4.. Try installing another browser and pulling it up..

 

[Daytonareefing]

I use a samsung pnone and the app works in the house but when you leave your house you have to use fusion in a browser which I prefer google chrome and it works just fine.

 

[Damon]

I use a samsung pnone and the app works in the house but when you leave your house you have to use fusion in a browser which I prefer google chrome and it works just fine.

If I remember, that's because in the app, you have to set the full address with the socket, and you will be able to use the app anywhere. I can't fully remember, as I haven't used it(the app) in so long. But I know(remember) I could use the app outside my house..


But even then, before fusion, I began using the web interface(the old grey one) even on my phone and tablet..

 

[pickupman66]

as someone who has strictly used the DA line of controllers, I would say that the Apex is a great product. it is definately ahead of The RKE in terms of flexability and module availability. that said, The Archon is where DA is devoting time and money to. I have had mine since December (beta tester) and while it has had its hiccups, it is pretty darn awesome so far. I think in a few more months, it will be stellar product.

 

[Deitta]

So basically the Apex system is more expensive in initial costs, but lasts longer, is practically infinitely upgrade able. Good to start with on a 55 gallon (let's say) and build up attachments/modules/sensors that can easily be moved to a larger tank (200-ish gal)! PERFECT!
Thank the tank gods for being an Alaskan who will be getting a $2,000 check this year from our PFD (oil money for Alaskan residents). Woo Hoo!

 

[n2585722]

So basically the Apex system is more expensive in initial costs, but lasts longer, is practically infinitely upgrade able. Good to start with on a 55 gallon (let's say) and build up attachments/modules/sensors that can easily be moved to a larger tank (200-ish gal)! PERFECT!
Thank the tank gods for being an Alaskan who will be getting a $2,000 check this year from our PFD (oil money for Alaskan residents). Woo Hoo!

How do you figure that the Apex last longer. I have had my RKE since 2008 and it is still going strong. I even have the original pH and temp probes.

 

[Ginu]

I don't think one controller lasts longer than the other... its more of a matter of preference (what looks better), functionality, price, support and most importantly fits the bill.

 

[n2585722]

Sorry, I guess the wording in you statement led me to think that you were saying the Apex last longer. My apologies.
Actually to me the RKE looks better. That is why I got it in the first place. Either controller will support the tanks you mentioned. I plan to have mine running both of my tanks when I get both setup. They will be opposite ends of the house with the topoff and fresh saltwater kept in the garage. You are right. As long as the controller you choose will support your needs it is just a matter of preference.

 

[Deitta]

I actually meant that beacause the Apex starts so basic and then so expandable as budget and tank size and number of tank grow, you would not need to "upgrade" and buy a "higher capacity" controller. I also saw the quality of the gear, such as the dosing pumps. As someone who is about to jump into the controller game, and prefers the plug and play of Apple-like products, it seems taylor made to me! I was already looking at AI Prime for new lights and I love that it is Apex ready. Just a newbie loving the idea of controllers (not even knowing such things existed a month ago) , and finding the kool-aid to my taste.

 

[n2585722]

As long as your controller meets your needs that is all that matters. If you have never owned or used the other comtrollers then it is hard to compare them with the one you have. You have to rely on someone's opinion that has used both. Since both of our controllers are modular. Any one componet can be replaced to upgrade the system as a whole without replacing the whole system if needed. My present controller setup in the photo below. The power bars are in another compartment.

 

[RussM]

I was already looking at AI Prime for new lights and I love that it is Apex ready.

The Prime is not compatible with Apex or any other controller; it sure would be nice if the Prime was able to be used with an external/3rd-party controller, but it is not. The Hydra and Vega families of AI LEDs are Apex-Ready though.

 

[Harry_Y]

Get the one with the best support.

 

[DaveMorris]

I always like to tell people that they should make a list of what they feel they need in a controller. Or at least what do you think you need in a controller. Then look at what is out there from companies such as Neptune, Digital Aquatics, GHL, Reef Angel, etc. Support, availability of parts, price, etc. are all elements that should be considered.

 

[TheEngineer]

I have a Reef Angel and up until yesterday I would strongly recommend it. I have the original controller and apparently the current version of their libraries no longer fits on it. The RA Plus version supposedly eliminates the issue. For me, I like to be able to control everything and you can do that with the RA.