What tests kits do in need?

[jmjohnson]

I am about to purchase all new test kits and found a master elos with most of the kits i could think of. What are the kits I absolutely need or want, and what brands. Thanks.

[snorvich]

Assuming SPS since you posted in this forum: Magnesium, Calcium, Alkalinity. Phosphate (I use Hanna photometer) and nitrate.

I assume ammonia is not longer an issue.

[eep013]

+1 for MAg, Calc, Alk, Phos and Nitrate. Those are generally all I ever test.

[jmjohnson]

What brand do you recommend? I need to decide between salifert and seachem.

[Nanook]

[moved]

[cthedaytrader]

once your tank is established you wont have to test for ammonia or nitrite. So the main ones you will need to ca and alk. Then Nitrate and Mg is good to measure as well in order to maximize calcifcation. So really all four of those are the main ones to test for. As far as Phosphate I test it and it is always zero, I dont think the phospate kits are sensitive enough so you would have to get a meter. I use Sailfert and no nothing about Seachem there are good reviews lately for other brands though.