Instant Ocean vs Reef Crystals?

[plankton123]

Instant Ocean (IO) salt, now owned by Aquarium Systems, used to be about $9 / 50 gallon bag but now runs about $13.50. Reef Crystals (RC), also by Aquarium Systems, usually runs $21/bag, but has been price reduced down to $15.50. So, the difference between the two is a mere $2.

Question 1 - Is the added calcium, trace elements and 'vitamins' worth the $2?

Question 2 - IO was relatively pure with little nitrates and phosphates. Is RC still as pure with all the extra stuff added?

Thanks.

PS What do y'all use and where do you get it?

 

[teknopanda]

well seeing how most of us already put so many buffers and chemical additives/supplements i'd say just get the instant ocean. but if u really want to know why don't u dissolve an equal amount of each salt in an equal amount of aerated water and test for nitrates, etc. it'd be interesting to know. post it if u do.