can anyone recommend a good quality, all-in-one test kit?
and how much I will expect to pay for it.....
The Hagen Mini Test Kit is a good one to start with. It has pH, ammonia, hardness and nitrite.
Pros: ammonia test is instant (no waiting for a result)
Con: ammonia test is only good for freshwater
The Hagen Master Kit has the same tests but also includes nitrate, iron, phosphate and calcium tests. It also includes a case which is good for housing all the small pieces like test tubes and pipettes.
Pros: ammonia test is suitable for saltwater
Con: ammonia test takes 20min for a result for fresh and salt water.
Personally for fresh water I would go for the mini kit and also buy a nitrate test separate. For salt water then definitly go the Master Kit.
You'll find Ben at Age of Aqua has the best prices on all the Hagen gear. $42 for the mini or $115 for the master kit.
http://www.aquariumproducts.com.au/category22_1.htm
I have used Sera test kits before but found the refills a lot more expensive and harder to find. They do have a larger test tube but it doesn't really help that much.
thanks mate :D
are u sure the ammonia test is instant?
I have used that kit before and it takes about 5 mins to get an accurate reading. And I'm sure it does both Salt and Fresh water.
Bear :wink:
i found the Aquarium Pharmaceuticals Freshwater Master Test kit great value. For $50 you get Low range ph, High range ph, Ammonia, Nitrite and Nitrate. hope this is of some help.
cheers
i just noticed you were on the gold coast. i got my kit from bernies pet barn at bundall.
I'm pretty sure Aquariums Alive also stocks that. And you also get a forum discount.
bear