Neptune Systems Apex Controller Combo with Standard Grade pH Probe

I didn't think I needed to brag on this system because as far as I am concerned it is the best on the market. It is easily programmable and can do just about anything you want it to to automate your system. I love it. However when checking other reviews I noticed some 1 stars so I read through them. They mainly revolve around module failures that caused disasters. The fact is any product can fail and if your controller fails, depending on how you have it set up it could be a major problem. That being said I don't believe the Apex is anymore prone to failures than any other electronic device. If you are completely adverse to failures then keep doing everything manually. I enjoy the automation and am not as risk adverse. Having said that I gave the system a 4 because the wire on the controller display is very thin and easily cut. With very little effort mine was cut and I had to buy a new one after the first day. If you are careful it shouldn't be a problem, but if it snags on something don't pull on it, not even a little! This experience in no way diminishes my love for the utility and use of the system.

This Does it all, its wasn't hard to setup and configure for me due to my background and knowledge, i can see where others cane get confused and frustrated. This used as a basic controller is great, but it can do almost anything, and if you have D.I.Y. Skill, you can get it to everything. I have used all 8 Plugs and programmed to do what i need them to do. i still had to use an old timer of mine for 1 thing due to not enough plugs, that's OK, you can always get more. Up to 1900 Plugs can be controlled by this unit. That's a lot, all that is needed is to purchase more of what they call "Energy Bars" to link to the system to control them. Almost unlimited possibilities. I have yet pushed this to the limits, But i will get there at one point, I love Technology. This unit works of HTML/XML programming over all. I think the Core is Linux. Over all, Just Sheer Awesome!

Apex is a great product when it is working, which it usually works 90% of the time. What is frustrating is their customer service or the lack of it. I purchased many of the Apex family to help run my 120 gal tank. I was excited to see the new products that would be coming out. Look I understand that Neptune System is running a business and things can happen. I get that. Over the last year I have called them in anticipation of their soon to be release product(s).Good luck in getting to them answer their phone. This did not bother me as I understood that I need to be patient especially when waiting for new products. What troubled me is when I ran into a problem with the wiring on the Apex display and opened a support ticket via their website. It took few days before they replied. I replied with proof of purchase and photos showing the problem. It has been many days later and no one has replied with any guidance.Bottom-line the product is great but this is one the worst customer service I have ever encounter or lack of encounter. No one is rude, just no one to get things resolved.Don't take my or any one else word for it. Look up Neptune System and try calling yourself. Great product rarely needs customer support. However customer support should be available.I have attached a photo. Yes, the controller is still under warranty.***Update*** Support finally contacted me and gave me a RMA #.

Upgraded my computer from a Reef Keeper Lite to the Apex and could not be happier. The included EB8 was a nice upgrade over the 4 plug outlets that I had with the RKL. The online Fusion interface makes setting up the system a breeze. I had my system completely switched over in about an hour. The one thing to be careful of with the head unit is the buttons are a little sensitive. Holding a button down will take you completely through all of its selections. Looking forward to keeping this system for a long time!

Prepare to spend hours setting it up. If your tank is not by a phone jack, then plan to spend days working on it.

A little challenging to program at first but Neptune support is awesome and there are plenty of forums to help. Should have bought when I started the tank. I would have saved a lot on other items such as timers, ATO, pH meter, temperature controls, etc. In fact, had I bought from the beginning, I would have save $250-$300 dollars. The controller gives peace of mind since it can send emails and shut down systems when things go awry.

This is a must have for serious aquarists....great features, awesome customer service,....can now see my tanks data from anywhere via the [...] recommend this product.