I stopped reading at the price. I'll stick with my hanna checkers. Why can't someone come out with a system that reflects what it does? Once you hit a grand + "super affordable non reagent reagents", it's sort of in the fantasy realm for most hobbyists. Yes yes this is a crazy expensive hobby, but that doesn't justify all these crazy priced gimmicks. Of course just my $.02 Is this really "site news" worthy?
This is for the serious hobbyist or one that may not have the time to test as frequently, or someone who just wants absolute control (lots of these people out there). 1k is nothing for the people who spend that on one coral alone. As the price of corals increase they become less expendable and people decide to invest in systems that keep things alive. Good for the hobbyist and better for the environment.
The ION director is quite innovative with using probe vs. reagents. There is far less mechanical items to go wrong and the costs to keep it running are minimal in comparison to the trident. This is a revolutionary piece of equipment for the hobby for automated testing, and when used in parallel with automated dosing functions this adds more flexibility to people who want to take part in the hobby but may not have the time for constant testing and dosing (or again, for people who just want to be reassured there treasured ecosystem is healthy and thriving).
GHL has always been the leader in controllers and tank automation. My P3 controller i bought over 14 years ago is still compatible with all new equipment and works just like day one and runs every system in my house. As someone who travels frequently I can tell you that this is needed and there is a huge demand for such a product.