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Which Apex Should I Pick? - Neptune Apex A3
Last updated on November 17th, 2023
Neptune Apex A3
Neptune Systems announced the release of their new generation of the Neptune Apex, the "A3" Line! Offering three different Apex options, the Jr, the "standard", and the Pro. While still being a controller, it seems that this line of Apex really adds a focus on monitoring, adding FMM (Fluid Monitoring Module) ports in particular.
All of these new Apex A3 options connect with the same peripheral devices, like the Neptune Trident, as well as Apex Fusion exactly the same as the previous model, now called the "A2". There are differences in what ports and sensors are included with each model. One big thing all of these new Apex Controllers include is an Audible Alarm to let you know when something is wrong!
Let's take a look at each of the models.
Neptune Apex A3 Jr.
The Neptune Systems A3 Apex Jr is the entry level, monitoring only edition of the Apex. This version of the Apex is intended to monitor simple parameters such as pH and temperature, as well as notify you of a low/high water level and potential flooding. They removed the ethernet port and only include WiFi in the Apex Jr Model. Additionally, there are two Aquabus ports, meaning you can upgrade your setup to include control using the EB832, DOS, and Trident down the line
Quick Specs:
- Price: $300
- Sensor Ports:
-
- 2x FMM Ports
- 1x pH / ORP Port
- 1x Temperature Probe Port
- Expansion/Communication Ports:
-
- 2x Aquabus Ports
- WiFi ONLY (No Ethernet)
- Included Sensors:
- pH Probe
- Temperature Probe
- *New* MOS Magnetic Optical Sensor
- *New* LD-2 Leak Detection Floor Sensor
Who is the A3 Apex Jr for?
The A3 Apex JR is meant for beginners in the hobby as well as those looking to be alerted when things are wrong, but don't want/need control. This would be a great addition for small reef tanks and aquariums that are mostly hardy coral that do not require tight parameters.
Neptune Apex A3 "Standard"
The Neptune Systems A3 Apex is the "Standard" offering, that seems to closely mimic the previous Apex EL, but includes the FMM and the sensors that go along with them. This model features form factor that we all know already, but the key benefit over the A3 Apex Jr is that it includes an additional FMM port, and the EB832 Energy Bar. In fact, it includes the same sensors as the Apex Jr. Making this model much easier to begin controlling with, which is likely the first addition you are likely to make to the Jr.
The digital inputs are nice if you like to use manual switches, however many of us simply use the Neptune Fusion App.
Quick Specs:
- Price: $600
- Sensor Ports:
-
- 3x FMM Ports
- 6x Switch Digital Input
- 1x pH / ORP Port
- 1x Temperature Probe Port
- Expansion/Communication Ports:
-
- 2x Aquabus Ports
- WiFi And Ethernet
- Included Sensors:
- pH Probe
- Temperature Probe
- *New* MOS Magnetic Optical Sensor
- *New* LD-2 Leak Detection Floor Sensor
- Includes EB832 Energy Bar
Who is the A3 Apex "Standard" for?
The A3 Apex is meant for those looking to actually control their reef tank in addition to simple monitoring. While the monitoring ability matches that of the A3 Apex JR, the addition of control with the EB832 is a great to have. Though it seems it may be cheaper to get the Apex Jr and buy an EB832; assuming you are not worried about the additional FMM Port, Ethernet Jack, or Digital Inputs.
Neptune Apex A3 Pro
The Neptune Systems A3 Apex Pro is the high-end offering, that seems to closely mimic the previous Apex, but includes the FMM and the sensors that go along with them. Much like the standard A3 Apex is similar to the Apex EL. The key benefit over the A3 Apex is that the Apex Pro includes an ORP Sensor, additional FMM port, and the 0-10V Variable outputs. The Apex Pro model does include a better leak detection sensor, and a liquid level sensor instead of optical sensors.
The Variable Outputs are used to control other devices such as light fixtures and pumps, and other "Apex Ready" devices that take 0-10v control. If this is not something you are currently using, it is not likely a high priority.
Quick Specs:
- Price: $900
- Sensor Ports:
-
- 4x FMM Ports
- 6x Switch Digital Input
- 4x Channels 0-10v Variable Output
- 2x pH / ORP Port
- 1x Salinity Probe Port (No Probe)
- 1x Temperature Probe Port
- Expansion/Communication Ports:
-
- 2x Aquabus Ports
- WiFi And Ethernet
- Included Sensors:
- pH Probe
- ORP Probe
- Temperature Probe
- *New* 15" LLS Liquid Level Sensor
- *New* LD-3 Optical Multi-Surface Leak Sensor
- Includes EB832 Energy Bar
Who is the A3 Apex Pro for?
The A3 Apex Pro is meant for the full gear junkie looking to be able to monitor and control anything and everything. I will also add that with digital inputs and variable outputs, it is also meant for the DIY'er that knows what they are doing when it comes to building your own control systems.
Should I upgrade my current A2 Apex System?
In short, no. The new A3 Apex Controllers do not have any magical functionality that cannot be obtained by the current A2 Apex Controllers. All of the additional functions can be added with the addition of an FMM Module, and additional sensors as you would like!
Which Neptune A3 Apex Should I Buy
As an additional support, here is a chart from Neptune Systems to help you decide which A3 Apex is for you!
Conclusion
If you have an existing Neptune Apex, honestly, I don't think there are enough features to upgrade. In fact, as the top gear junkies upgrade their Neptune Apex from the A2 to the A3, I would buy the older A2 Apex model at a STEEP discount! You will have almost all of the same features, for a lower cost. If you are not able to find these options, or REALLY need the built in FMM ports, the new A3 Apex is for you!
Recommended Reading:
- How to Start Dosing Calcium, Alkalinity and Magnesium in Reef Tanks
- Alkalinity in a Reef Tank - Determining Alkalinity Consumption
About the Author
John Krenzer
John is a Software Engineer with a passion for saltwater aquariums, as well as the founder and president of Reef Stable. He started in the aquarium hobby as a child with a 20 gallon freshwater aquarium. His interest in aquarium life grew and in 2008, John set up his first saltwater aquarium.
Today, John maintains an over 300 gallon reef tank system, consisting of a 120g reef and a 210g reef. These large tanks are contained within the same system, sharing a sump as a means to reduce total maintenance and increase total water volume.
John writes articles for the blog as a means to learn about more reef aquarium topics. These articles act as a reference for the readers as well as himself. John updates these articles frequently to provide additional information or make corrections as new information becomes available.
If you would like to request an article, tank tour article, or to collaborate, let me know via the Contact Me Page!
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