[Delphinus]

I agree with Chad. A stable value that's "not bad" is better for good growth than a "good" value that's a "peak value." Mind you 345 is probably a little low still, NSW is what, about 390? But if you can do a stable 390 with say 3.9meq/l (roughly 11-12 dKH) that would actually be "better" than say peak values of 450&4.5meq/l. Unfortunately with any kind of additive the trend is going to be more of a "sawtooth effect" (i.e., sudden rise when you add the stuff, then a steady decline as it gets used up). Whereas with a calcium reactor it is to be tuned to add it back at the same rate it is used up, thus giving steady unwavering levels. So unfortunately it's a hefty investment, but it's one of the best investments you can make for your tank if you have heavy consumers of Ca and Alk (which in fact is most things, even softeys make use of these).