Magnesium and calcium levels

[Metrontech]

That's the first in have ever heard of not keeping. I your Mag level

It starts with Mag, then alk then Calc

I'm more confused now

Originally Posted by Aquattro

Reef Crystals should mix much higher than that. Regular IO mixes near 270 or so on Ca.
Your "needs" are to keep Ca around 400, which RC should do fine without adding stuff. I don't personally care much what Mg numbers are, but no harm raising if you like. The alk you posted is fine.

What test kit gives RC salt Ca of 350? Doesn't sound right at all

[Aquattro]

Ya, don't worry about my opinion on Mg, I'm mostly alone in that But pick some numbers, say 420 Ca, Mg 1350 or whatever, bring your tank to that and each time you make new water for a water change, raise it if needed, and do a water change. Don't worry about dosing or any of that stuff for a while, probably until you have visual and noticeable growth in stony corals.

[Reef Pilot]

As Brad says, your current parameters are just fine for LPS and softies, and you may be over concerned about your attention to Mg. I agree. Even for SPS these parameters would be good.

Having said, not a bad idea to nail down the practice of testing and maintaining all your parameters at a constant level (except MG can vary from 1050 - 1500) in preparation for adding SPS. Then it becomes very important, esp your alk, which you want to keep very constant. And of course keep N03 and P04 (which is also very important for SPS) near zero.

Good luck with your tank. I think you are on the right track.