Need advise on Reactor

[Mike Murphy]

I'm looking to buy a calcium reactor for my 125. What should I look for if I buy new? Used?

[b16drag]

If you are like me and are a bargain shopper, wait patiently for a used calcium reactor. Read up on a calcium reactor and what it does. You'll find out that its just a stupid tube that circulates an acidic fluid allowing breakdown of calcium reactor media. With that said, the majority of the calcium reactor out there works... just a matter of finding one that you are willing to settle on and how much to spend.

If you are looking for a used one, sometime people will sell their calcium reactor, CO2 bottle, and regulator together for a nice price. Main thing is to make sure the pump still work, no leak, and a decent regulator with shutoff valve.

[hng]

New reactor? Go with one from MRC. Getting a used one is a good idea too, since they are pretty expensive. Things to look for: good quality acrylic construction without any leaks or cracks, dual chamber reactor, recirc pump included (Eheim and Mag pumps preferable), spray bar, needle valve adjustment knob for effluent rate control, bubble counter, port for pH probe, pH controller, solenoid for CO2 regulator, aluminum CO2 tank (better than steel).

[Mike Murphy]

I thought about purchasing a new one and the prices I have been quoted are about $7-800. I have seen some advertised for half of that including thje Co2 bottle and regulator. I like the idea of probe and sensor etc being somewhat automatic. I gues I need to read up on what is old school and new on these. Any good links to review?