PH Test Kit/meter recommendations

[commander]

Ok, I have read through most of the discussions here concerning ph testing, the various methods and available equipment but what I would like is a concise recommendation on a test kit and meter. Anyone, please?

[keith_r]

get an api master test kit.. this gives you ph, ammonia, nitrites and nitrate readings..

[urbanfarmer]

get an api master test kit.. this gives you ph, ammonia, nitrites and nitrate readings..
This is cheap and good for most our purposes. Try to find the kit with the "WIDE PH" test instead of the 2 separate pH (low/high) test. It's just more convenient.

[Shas]

Yes, the API master test kit is the most useful for cycling
and for aquaponics generally.

I've been drooling over the latest generation of pen-style pH testers.
Ebay has lots of these for sale starting at $10,
with two buffer solutions and a little screwdriver and shipping included.
Actually, the pH/moisture/light meters for hydroponics
begin at $3.81 with free shipping!!
Has anyone here tried these amazingly cheap instruments?
When I was in university
(and that seems like only a few weeks ago)
pH testers were temperamental, expensive,
and too fragile for freshmen to touch.

[commander]

Yes, the API master test kit is the most useful for cycling
and for aquaponics generally.

I've been drooling over the latest generation of pen-style pH testers.
Ebay has lots of these for sale starting at $10,
with two buffer solutions and a little screwdriver and shipping included.
Actually, the pH/moisture/light meters for hydroponics
begin at $3.81 with free shipping!!
Has anyone here tried these amazingly cheap instruments?
When I was in university
(and that seems like only a few weeks ago)
pH testers were temperamental, expensive,
and too fragile for freshmen to touch.


Shas

Since I am a total newbie to this, I am going with the general recommendations on the Master Text Kit from API. However, Since I am always looking for new and improved, once I get a little experience under my belt I think it would be worthwhile to get some of the cheap (relatively) test equipment you have mentioned and run them in tandem to see how they compare.

[urbanfarmer]

I have a cheapo pen-style pH tester. It seems I have to calibrate it before every use and during use! Once you get used to it being finicky you can get a fairly decent number you can be sure of. It's just faster and easier than using the API test kit and is just as accurate.

I would still start out with the chemical test kit.

[jackalope]

I've always used the API Test Kit, rather than the electronics, which are not always reliable - just my personal opinion!

[alex281]

I have a cheapo pen-style pH tester. It seems I have to calibrate it before every use and during use! Once you get used to it being finicky you can get a fairly decent number you can be sure of. It's just faster and easier than using the API test kit and is just as accurate.

I would still start out with the chemical test kit.

This is exactly why i knew i shouldnt buy one!

API master test kit for me :D

[urbanfarmer]

:mrgreen: