[sphelps]

Yeah I would have to agree. I think IO is popular because it's cheap, available everywhere and always around and probably always will be. However I personally don't care for it because essentially every element is low including Ca, Mg, K, and so on. So when you want to use properly you got to mix up a large portion in a container then aerate it overnight, then supplement, and then verify. RC is essentially the same as regular IO, it's not worth the extra money IMO.

I prefer the plug and play, RBS. I add it directly to the sump and use the top off to add the make up water. The levels are good and consistent and I've never had a problem. If I did this with other salts I would be having huge problems. RBS also doesn't leave the white residue behind like other salts including IO.