Reef Angel Forum

I want an ATO, and since I think I will want a controller in the future (for dimming, and wave control, etc) I'm thinking it makes sense to start with a RA instead of getting a stand-alone ATO system.

So, will I be happy with the RA+ out of the box with its two float switches? Can that make an adequate ATO controller? Or will I really want the MultiChannel Water Level expansion?

You would be fine with float switches to start out and as you get comfortable you can invest in the WL sensor.

You came to a great conclusion a lot more value going this route.

What he said.

--Colin

Thanks so much.

Also, when I connect my WP-25 I assume the power comes fully from the RA (no use for the original power supply). Is that correct?

I'd also like to add an RW-8, will the base controller handle two wave makers, or do I need an expansion?

As an aside... We have a 4', 55g tank (currently just fish, live-rock & sand... but adding corals in the future) . Any opinion on whether I should go with adding the RW-4 or RW-8? I hear the RW pumps are pretty strong and most people are running them at very low power in these smaller tanks.

No the power still comes from the power supply. The only thing you won't need is the controller from the wp-25. If you have a free dimming port you won't need a dimming expansion yet. You'll probably be fine with the rw-4 with the other powerhead and it being a smaller tank. However if you lost the wp-25, not sure it would cover by itself.

lnevo wrote:No the power still comes from the power supply.

Oh... so does the Jebao/Speedwave Cable connect the 3 elements together (RA controller, Jebao powersupply, wavemaker)?

Thanks for the info on the RW-4/8. I'll probably just go with the 8, and hopefully be able to dial it back.

Yep, the cable connects to the controller, pump, and PS.

The RW's dial back to 20%, vs the old WP's which only went to 30%. I'd go with the 8 on a 55, since you'll want to get a bigger tank sometime in the future.