I just bought the API reef master test kit. Do I also need the salt water kit? Not sure of the difference.

IMO, everything you need is in the reef kit except for mag, and other specialty tests. i have both and never use the saltwater kit.

IMO, everything you need is in the reef kit except for mag, and other specialty tests. i have both and never use the saltwater kit.

Thanks ReefKeeper. So the reef master kit can do PH and ammonia as well?

no, but if you are through the cycle you should never detect ammonia. the PH will be detemined by the Alk or carbonate hardness of the water. as long as everything in the cal, alk, and mag trio are in order and stable ... PH should also be stable and only vary within a small range.

no, but if you are through the cycle you should never detect ammonia. the PH will be detemined by the Alk or carbonate hardness of the water. as long as everything in the cal, alk, and mag trio are in order and stable ... PH should also be stable and only vary within a small range.

Not through the cycle as I haven't set up my tank yet. Probably will set up next week. So I'm wondering if I need the whole salt kit or can I get by with something else.

for the cycle i would probably go ahead and spend the money and get both kits. after the cycle you will rarely use the SW kit, and rely mostly on the reef kit. sorry for any confusion.

for the cycle i would probably go ahead and spend the money and get both kits. after the cycle you will rarely use the SW kit, and rely mostly on the reef kit. sorry for any confusion.

No that clears things up.