so this is just my opinion: I have had a PM reactor with effluent chamber now for 4 yrs, the only thing i have changed on it is the impeller on the pump and media. I used a M1200 to feed it and it has been trouble free. Yes you have to but a PH controller,probe,needle valve,and CO2 bottle but there are things a reactor puts back into the water that are natural that dosing cant. JMO. PM CR422 with a EF1 is what i have. There local and are realy nice to deal with. Maybe this will help you make a decision. Good luck!