RKL or APEX?

RKL or APEX?

  • RKL

    Votes: 0 0.0%

  • APEX

    Votes: 0 0.0%
  • Total voters
    0
DB9181

DB9181

New member
I really hate to do this ... lol... But: RLK or APEX? I'm look for a basic controller at the cheapest price with the best options. I do like the fact that APEX allows wireless interface (iphone, etc).

What are your thoughts? -This is not meant to turn in to a RLK vs. APEX battle, please try to keep postings [mostly] factual.
 
Apex are more pricier than the RKL but both are great! Apex does have MUCH better customer service compared to RKL or DA if anything was happen to the unit.
 
Sweet...I was hoping you'd do this ;)
You gotta compare apples to apples though, RKL vs full Apex isn't gonna help DA's business. What are the most important things you want out of the controller? Temp and fail-safe right?

DA has been slacking on updates, or at least that's what I've been told. The Android app for the Apex isn't as polished as the Iphone app, but I hear it works fine. The Apex should be able to handle any of the Ecotech pumps (no personal experience), so the app should be able to handle the pump control, as well.

I wanted specific things out of my controller, and all said and done, I went Apex because it was less add-ons, and more tweakable.

DB9181 said:
Reep Keeper Lite - Basic: $115

Apex JR - $150
Click to expand...

Just noticed you specified Jr. I'd just compare out of the box features and number of outlets. I still think the Jr. will come out better in the long run, but make sure you spend once, not once now, and more later when you found out you should have bought the full Apex/RKE.
 
We'll originally I was just going to get a JBJ ATO Unit - but George talked me into adding a float switch to a RKL for very cheap. Im running MHs on their own timers so I dont really need those plugs but after thinking about it my house/tank room sometimes does heat up ALOT and a fail-safe for temp would be really nice (turn off lights, turn on Fans, etc) Pumps: running 2 constantly and will have the other two on a JBJ Wavemaker Duo.

Thats why i was trying to compare the 'basic' models of each - both can be upgraded/added on too (probes, strips, etc)
 
I don't think Apex does wireless. I only see a standard Ethernet port on them. The iPhone can access it wirelessly via the Internet but the unit itself isn't wireless.
 
I have a RKL SL1 package I got from Marine Depot on my 72 Gal Bow Front and a full Apex on my 92 Gal Corner Bow. Mind you they are on different price points and feature sets. That said, the Apex is by far the better controller. I personally like the iphone app and the network-ability of the Apex out of the box. I can do the same but with an add on module for the RKL from what I understand. I personally like the programming of the apex over the RKL. I like the computer interface....in fact, I love the fact I can do all the programming straight from my computer.

In fact, I am planning to replace the RKL with an add on module I will connect to my Apex. The Apex can control many different systems at the same time. I wish there was more of a wireless component so I do not have to pull wire from one tank to another.... perhaps I can field engineer something....

Good luck with your decision. I think the extra dollars for a full Apex is worth the spend.
 
I really like my rkl. It can do some in depth things yet is also very detailed. I've called DA a couple times with questions and had no issue. Yogo has a reefkeeper elite for sale. Really good deal.
 
Jason R said:
I don't think Apex does wireless. I only see a standard Ethernet port on them. The iPhone can access it wirelessly via the Internet but the unit itself isn't wireless.
Click to expand...

True, but a $30 DD-WRT router (which I'd hook up for either those mofo's maself) would make that problem go away...

Edit: Or what TL said :)
 
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