SR ADDITIVE REVIEWS

We break down reef chemistry products based on what they actually deliver — clarity over marketing claims, performance over popularity. By standardizing cost based on real additive concentration and evaluating results. Our mission is the right reef additive the first time instead of guessing your way through bottles.

Serious Reefs unfiltwered reviews have no sponsors, no advertisers, and no manufacturer funding. We do not accept free products, paid placements, for reviews. Every additive we test is purchased by Serious Reefs, which ensures every review remains fully unfiltered, data-driven, and focused on what matters: building healthier, more successful reef tank


Ryan Batcheller Ryan Batcheller

Triton Other Methods 4 Part | SR Unfiltered Review

After a thorough review, Triton reminded us why they changed how many of us think about reef chemistry. This is a solid, thoughtfully engineered two part solution for the majority of hobbyists who do not run a refugium, backed by a level of science and trace element strategy that clearly sets it apart.

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Ryan Batcheller Ryan Batcheller

BRS Bulk Two Part | SR Unfiltered Review

If you want a proven, cost-effective two-part system and don’t mind mixing dry powders, this is one of the best values available. If you expect a modern, all-in-one solution with trace elements included out of the box, plan to add a simple, inexpensive supplement to bring it up to current standards.

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Ryan Batcheller Ryan Batcheller

AquaForest Component 1+, 2+, 3+ | SR Unfiltered Review

We explored AquaForest Component 1+, 2+, 3+ to figure out where it fits in the reefing toolbox.

Short version: It is not our top pick for intermediate or advanced systems that need concentrated solutions or active pH control.

It is a convenient, ready-to-use liquid balling-style system that makes life easy for new reefers and hobbyists dosing by hand

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Ryan Thompson Ryan Thompson

ESV B-Ionic | SR Unfiltered Review

ESV B-Ionic has been a staple in the hobby for decades because it is simple and cheap, but there are a few surprises under the hood. We’ll walk through exactly what it does, what it does not do, and how to pair it with the right supplements if you want pro-level stability.

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Ryan Thompson Ryan Thompson

*NEW* Nyos Ion-B | SR Unfiltered Review

We reviewed the Nyos Ion-B additive line and came away impressed. It is a liquid, multi-part two-part system that includes alkalinity, calcium/magnesium, and three separate ion element blends. It can help elevate pH, addresses magnesium and potassium, and gives you adjustable trace element dosing rather than a single one-size-fits-all reef trace bottle. Priced against our SR concentration standard it works out to about $24.14, putting it in the middle of the pack — but remember that the three 250ml bottles are sized to last multiple refills, which increases value over time. If Nyos releases a dry version as planned, we expect the cost to drop because shipping dry chemicals removes the weight and cost of shipping liters of water-based solution..

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Ryan Batcheller Ryan Batcheller

Not A Feesh NAF (LYE) 2‑Part: | SR Unfiltered Review

Not A Feesh, or simply NAF, stands out as a sodium hydroxide-based two-part additive. It offers double the pH lift compared to most other two-part systems on the market. This makes it a powerful tool for reefers dealing with chronically low pH (below 7.8) or those who are "pro-level" and aim for peak performance, like maintaining an 8.3 pH in an rapid growth Acropora tank.

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