PH Pen

[darb]

admittedly, I am just a n00b (and probably always be one) but don't see myself dosing with CO2 in the immediate future. Possibly dosing 2 part or kalk via ato when I am ready.

But that aside, isn't a PH check and good general overall health indicator of the tank?

[Aquattro]

Originally Posted by darb

But that aside, isn't a PH check a good general overall health indicator of the tank?

no, not really. And honestly, a pH probe should be calibrated before every use. If you don't, you get slight creeping in value. The you start trying to fix stuff by adding baking soda or viegar, then you get other problems, and it can turn into a nightmare.
A good overall check is sit in front of the tank for a few minutes and watch your livestock. Soon you'll know happy corals vs not happy.
Doing regular water changes will keep things stable. If something dies, remove it right away. Don't dose things you aren't testing for. Follow some simple guidelines and your pH will stay fine.