Refractometer question

[angler man]

Okay, I have been using a swing arm hydrometer for my SG readings and I realize that this isn't the smartest or the safest way to manage a reef tank(or any tank for that matter)for accuracy in this area. My question is this, have any of you had experience with the pin point monitors vs the portable refractometers?

 

[dmjordan]

i love my refractometer. quick and easy to use. i have never used a pin point model. always wondered how accurate they would be because you would think that the probe would get covered with coraline algae and not get a proper reading.

 

[grennan]

The portable refractometer with ATC is the way to go. The easy, quick and cheap way to test anywhere anytime.

 

[reefstar]

i have a portable and its great, i use it on my tank and i let my friend use it on his. and its really easy to keep clean

 

[nycbob]

when u hv over $3000 worth of livestocks in ur tank, i think a refractometer is worth the investments.

 

[calvertbill]

My only two blanket criticisms of LFSs are:
1. I've never heard of one urging a newby to get a QT as a necessary piece of equipment.
2. They sell hydrometers. Right up there with death and taxes you can put the inevitable future need for precise sG measurement for everyone who's into this hobby. Get a portable refractometer.

 

[oahogset]

Originally Posted by Calvertbill
My only two blanket criticisms of LFSs are:
1. I've never heard of one urging a newby to get a QT as a necessary piece of equipment.
2. They sell hydrometers. Right up there with death and taxes you can put the inevitable future need for precise sG measurement for everyone who's into this hobby. Get a portable refractometer.
I hate to say it, but I think the reason for both your criticisms is that they would make less money...

 

[anonome]

Originally Posted by nycbob
when u hv over $3000 worth of livestocks in ur tank, i think a refractometer is worth the investments.
I have to agree 100%. With the money that we pay for a fish for instance, compared to a .99 freshwater fish or some even less, it should be on everyones list of things to get when buying the tank, sand, and rock.
I used a swing arm hydrometer at first....newby mistake....and everything always checked out ok. Then got a ATC (auto temperature control) refractometer and found out that my tank was actually at 1.021, not the 1.027 that the hydrometer said it was at.
I think this should really be one of the first things that one should purchase.
As far as your question on a pin point type meter....they usually cost a lot more than the good old fashion ATC refractometer, why buy more when less is sufficent? Doesn't make much sense.

Spend the extra money saved on a coral or fish.