Hi Guys, I just love the site it is awesome keep it up. What do you think is the best high end test kit out there. I don’t mind spending the money but I want a real quality accurate test kit for my 300 gallon reef. Did you see anything just over the top [...]
Hi Guys,
I just love the site it is awesome keep it up. What do you think is the best high end test kit out there. I don’t mind spending the money but I want a real quality accurate test kit for my 300 gallon reef. Did you see anything just over the top at MACNA as far as test kits go? Thanks for any help or advice.Matt D.
Hi Matt,
No test kits caught our eyes at the event. We have found Elos test kits to be the most reliable. But, like any test kit they are still susceptible to human error when performing and reading the test. A popular test kit combination as of late has been Elos and API. API test kits are inexpensive and generally trust worthy. If the two kits differ from one another it’s likely something is off and worth investigating or cross referencing with another trust worthy kit from a friend of LFS. Another good kit is LaMotte.
Since you mention that you do not mind springing a bit… perhaps Hanna Instruments, or Hach, has a Colorimeter that will better suit your needs. I know some aquarists are using the Hach DR 890 and DR 850 with good results. These unit retail for ~$1,000. Hanna is also well known in the hobby for their low range phosphate colorimeter. These are particularly useful if you have difficulty differentiating color.
However, do not think this is the answer to your parameter woes. In order to ensure they are accurate many need to be calibrated (by a professional) on an annual basis. Add this cost, plus additional reagents and it quickly grows in price. Also, many photometers also have complications when used in seawater and generally only offer low range Po4 and No3. If you are set on a colorimeter, you may want to wait. Elos has also be created their own that should be available soon… More details here.
At the end of the day, each test kit or meter has its fair share of flaws and you should not be overly reliant on them. What’s important is stability and consistency. Many of the animals, in particular Acroporids can live at a wide range of parameters, but for optimal coloration and growth stability is paramount. Good luck with your test kit endeavor, but remember your animals reactions are just as, if not more important, than what any test kit will tell you.
