Reefkeeper Lite Controllers

[mikerobart]

Anyone have any experience with this relatively new unit? I  am considering the RKL Level 3 for my soon to be 120 gallon reef. Initially would only need it for monitoring temp, pH, controlling a fan and perhaps it's wavemaker function. Eventually I would probably want it to control an ATO system. I have heard of a lot of bugs with the RKE, but it is probably out of my price range for now, although the email / wifi options etc are very attractive.

What do you think of the RKL 3, vs. something like the Neptune Aquacontroller Jr?

[tskinner]

RKL vs ACJr:
The RKL can address up to 16 channels/outlet. (Jr only 12)
The RKL can monitor multiple temp probes AND multiple pH probes (Jr can't)
The RKL can be set with audible and visual alarms (Not with the Jr)
The RKL has only one wire coming from the head unit allowing you to mount it in a much more convenient location. (Jr has all wires hanging from the bottom of the unit.)
The RKL is less expensive to expand then other units! (DC4 and DC8s are over $100)
The RKL has a much more convenient 5 button interface. (Jr - 3 button)
The RKL has a clear menu system (Jr uses a programming language)
The RKL can interface with multiple switch inputs for an ATO system
The RKL can monitor/control ORP (Jr can't)
The RKL can monitor Amps on each PC4 (Jr can't)
The RKL PC4s have manual overrides at the power strip! (Not so with the competitor)

It's about the same initial cost for the RKL and competitive units when looking at a complete system. However the feature set and style of the RKL make it an incredible value over other options on the market at this level! Not to mention the base system of the RKL can monitor and control temp and four outlets. That's not possible with other controllers within this price range.


This info is directly from Digital Aquatics......

[mikerobart]

Definitely seems like the RKL is a good option for me. Definitely a good value on the RKL Level, surprisingly cheap considering all it can do. Only thing that has freaked me out a little is reading the bugs / user problems on the DA help forum  , although many people say it is an excellent little unit, not to mention would look pretty sexy flush mounted in front doors of my cabinet!

[tskinner]

Definitely seems like the RKL is a good option for me. Definitely a good value on the RKL Level, surprisingly cheap considering all it can do. Only thing that has freaked me out a little is reading the bugs / user problems on the DA help forum  , although many people say it is an excellent little unit, not to mention would look pretty sexy flush mounted in front doors of my cabinet!

From what I've seen on Reef Central, the support from DA seems to be great as well as the support from all the knowledgeable users over there as well.  I personally think its a good investment if don't want to go with the RKE

[mikerobart]

Thanks for the advice. It's probably what I will go with. Would still love to hear from users here who have personal experience with the unit as well.

[rkmike]

Has any one used the RKL on a planted tank setup? How's it working out?