Profilux vs Apex

[Jason McK]

Not a lot of Profilux supporters. Yes I have to admit that they are expensive (I got mine used)
I'll admit I know nothing about other controllers, but to point out some of the high lights of the Profilux unit
1) simple to use PC interface
2) Online Support Profilux Support Forum that is top notch
3) Unending expandability
4) 3rd party manufactures of lights, pumps, anything really have been integrated to be driven by Profilux

J

[Aquattro]

Originally Posted by Jason McK

Not a lot of Profilux supporters.

I'm not sure that's accurate. I support that it's a great product, and support has a good reputation. I would buy one today, BUT....for the basics to manage what I need comes in around $1400 after taxes. The Apex unit, which has a good reputation and good support as well, comes in at under $800 for the same functionality I require.
So far the only function the Apex apparently can't do(within my reqs) is create lightning effects...not something I desire on my setup.
Now if the Profilux was even close in price, I would buy it for sure, based on reputation, functionality and curb appeal. But for a difference of 600 bucks, I have to look at the Apex to fill my needs.

[Jason McK]

I just meant not a lot of the supports had posted in this thread. Then I noticed Tom and rjengen posts

[Aquattro]

Originally Posted by Jason McK

I just meant not a lot of the supports had posted in this thread. Then I noticed Tom and rjengen posts

Oh, ya. I guess it's a money thing. I have never heard a bad comment about Profilux, other than most of us can't afford one

and within the realm of what most people need, there are comparable units at a lot less money. For my needs, I would need to buy the beginner III pack and a second powerbar, which putsit out of my price range. The Apex, with identical features is $691 cheaper. That's a lot of other stuff I can buy.

[rjengen]

It's like bikes...some people are happy riding around on their honda's, while there are some of us that love to ride around on our harley's...they both get you to where you're going...only one costs a little more, and sounds better

[Aquattro]

Originally Posted by rjengen

It's like bikes...some people are happy riding around on their honda's, while there are some of us that love to ride around on our harley's...they both get you to where you're going...only one costs a little more, and sounds better

I think this probably makes up my mind for me. I just need to get somewhere, so if both devices are comparable in what they will offer me, the less expensive is the way to go. That leaves me 600 bucks for coral

If ever I win the lottery and can afford a Harley, I'll be buying a Ferrari instead. I'll use it to go to the LFS and pick up a Profilux

[cale262]

Originally Posted by Aquattro

I think this probably makes up my mind for me. I just need to get somewhere, so if both devices are comparable in what they will offer me, the less expensive is the way to go. That leaves me 600 bucks for coral

If ever I win the lottery and can afford a Harley, I'll be buying a Ferrari instead. I'll use it to go to the LFS and pick up a Profilux

LOL, at least you'll get where you're going with the reliable Honda,...You can't always say that with the Harley, Just saying...

[mr.wilson]

The Vertex Cerebra is just a CAD drawing, so I wouldn't hold my breath on that one. You will see a touch screen from the other players before that one ever makes it to market. A proprietary touch screen isn't the smart way to go, when you can buy an Ipad for $550, or an HP Slate in Stir Crazy's case

If your short term and longterm needs are limited (PH, temp, ORP, ATO, lighting), then buy a Reefkeeper. If you have a larger system with a calcium reactor, prop pumps, or any other 0-10V devices then go with Apex, and if you don't mind paying double the cost and can't do it with Apex, then Profilux is the smart choice.

All of these manufacturers have very confusing or at least vague, product lists and descriptions. Be prepared for surprise extra costs for modules, expansion boxes, power bars, level sensors, calibration solutions, software, and solenoids.

If you like tech gear, then any of these are well worth the investment. If you are not technically inclined, then buy dedicated control devices. Sometimes it is convenient to carry all of your eggs in one basket, while other times... how does the saying go again?

[albert_dao]

Originally Posted by mr.wilson

The Vertex Cerebra is just a CAD drawing, so I wouldn't hold my breath on that one.

That's a pretty unsubstantiated claim considering a working prototype was displayed at Interzoo. To the best of my knowledge, it would seem highly improbable/impossible to have thousands of individuals touch and physically manipulate a CAD-based object at a trade show short of... MAGIC. So unless you're suggesting that MAGIC happened, I'd back up your statement with something outside of a biased opinion.

The Cerebra is completely different from traditional controller systems. It is an app-based device, and much like what the iPhone did to the mobile industry, the Cerebra will set the stage for a new level of user functionality and interactivity. What other controller will be seamlessly plug & play for any and all devices/apps. What other controller will prominently feature Android-based app building function? How many controllers are still limited by their 8-bit CPU?

Cross your t's and dot your i's buddy.

Sorry to the OP for derailing the thread.

[mr.wilson]

Originally Posted by albert_dao

That's a pretty unsubstantiated claim considering a working prototype was displayed at Interzoo. To the best of my knowledge, it would seem highly improbable/impossible to have thousands of individuals touch and physically manipulate a CAD-based object at a trade show short of... MAGIC. So unless you're suggesting that MAGIC happened, I'd back up your statement with something outside of a biased opinion.

The Cerebra is completely different from traditional controller systems. It is an app-based device, and much like what the iPhone did to the mobile industry, the Cerebra will set the stage for a new level of user functionality and interactivity. What other controller will be seamlessly plug & play for any and all devices/apps. What other controller will prominently feature Android-based app building function? How many controllers are still limited by their 8-bit CPU?

Cross your t's and dot your i's buddy.

Sorry to the OP for derailing the thread.

Sorry, I didn't hear the prototype was working. I heard it was just a concept. I still stand by my comment that an Ipad or similar device makes more sense. I'm sure Vertex will drop the Cerebra once they realize this.