Video credit: vitevtv. Original video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=klHYTzrUxKc. This is our own independent breakdown and is not affiliated with the video creator. As an Amazon Associate, Shrimpyo earns from qualifying purchases. Product prices shown in the video may have changed.
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Product breakdown
- APEC Water RO system
- iSpring RO system
- Home Master RO system
- Salty Shrimp GH/KH+
- 5 stage RO system
This breakdown is our own summary of the video for reference. Confirm current specs and price on the retailer page before buying.
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This is our own independent breakdown and is not affiliated with the video creator. As an Amazon Associate, Shrimpyo earns from qualifying purchases. Product prices shown in the video may have changed.
This setup process is for turning pure RO water into stable shrimp water. You will see a setup in this class that starts with filtration and ends with careful remineralizing before the water ever touches your shrimp.
What This Video Covers
This video from vitevtv covers RO water remineralizing tutorial, giving a real world look at a setup in this category. Think of it as a setup in this class, not an exact shopping list, and use it to understand the order of operations from clean water to tank ready water.
For shrimp keepers, that workflow suits Neocaridina cherry types as well as more sensitive Caridina like Crystal Red and Taiwan Bee styles. Neocaridina tolerate a wider range of source water, while Caridina and Taiwan Bee types do best when you start from a clean baseline and rebuild minerals in a controlled way. If you want background on that choice, see how to choose RO water vs tap water for shrimp keeping.
Scale wise, this approach fits the small home setups keepers commonly report, including 10 gallon starter tanks and a couple of desktop breeding tanks fed from one RO unit. You make water in a bucket or storage container, adjust it, test it, then use it for water changes. It is not about plumbing directly to the tank, it is about creating consistent change water every time.
One tradeoff at this level is convenience versus control. An under sink RO unit takes more planning to install and maintain than buying jugs, but you get a fresh and consistent baseline on demand. A second tradeoff is built in mineral addition versus manual shrimp minerals. Built in alkaline remineralization is tuned for taste, while a dedicated shrimp mineral lets you target shrimp specific needs with more precision.
A key point to carry through this whole category is that RO or RODI output is essentially 0 GH, KH and TDS and must be remineralized before use. Remineralize gradually and test before adding to the tank rather than assuming a fixed number of drops works for every unit. For Neocaridina focused guidance, this pairs well with how to choose remineralizer for neocaridina RO water.
Timestamp Breakdown
This is the core of the article. Use the table below to map what is common at this level to what you can buy today in November 2026. The video shows a setup in this class, and the picks on the right are our current grounded alternatives.
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Quick Picks at a Glance
Prime Salty Shrimp Mineral GH/KH+ 200g
Home Master TMAFC-ERP Artesian Reverse Osmosis
Prime iSpring RCC7-BN 5-Stage Reverse Osmosis Under Sink
APEC ROES-50 5-Stage Under Sink Reverse Osmosis
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Pros
- Dissolves almost completely in seconds with no long waiting time before water changes
- Promotes vibrant color, active behavior, healthy molts and reliable breeding results
- Very economical, a 200g container treats a large volume of pure water
- Benefits the whole tank including plants and biological filtration
Cons
- Must be premixed outside the aquarium and measured carefully to avoid parameter swings
- Powder absorbs moisture quickly, container must be closed immediately after each use
- Formulated for neutral pH GH/KH species, not suitable for soft water Caridina that need very low KH
Salty Shrimp Mineral GH/KH+ 200g is a specialized remineralizing powder designed to prepare neutral aquarium water for shrimp keeping and breeding. It is ideal for hobbyists using RO, rainwater or fully desalinated water who keep Neocaridina, crayfish, snails and community fish.
Its standout feature is the balanced GH to KH ratio of 1.0 to 0.5, which creates stable neutral pH water that supports healthy molting, intense coloration and consistent breeding. In real world use it dissolves in seconds and delivers essential minerals and trace elements that also benefit plants and beneficial filter bacteria.
The product comes as a fine powder in a compact 200g container with an enclosed measuring spoon for accurate dosing. The powder mixes quickly outside the tank, and just 2 grams per 10 liters reliably reaches about 6 dGH and 300 microsiemens conductance.
The main drawbacks are that it requires careful measuring and premixing, as dosing directly in the tank can cause swings. The powder also absorbs moisture quickly so you must close the container immediately, and it is not intended for soft water Caridina species that require near zero KH.
Overall, Salty Shrimp Mineral GH/KH+ is one of the most trusted solutions for creating healthy, stable shrimp water from pure RO sources. If you want stronger colonies, better survival and vibrant shrimp in a neutral pH setup, this is an excellent, easy to use choice.
Brand: SALTYSHRIMP by Salty Shrimp, Model Number SSM-SM-200, Form: Fast dissolving mineral powder in 200g container with measuring spoon included.
Function: Remineralizes RO water, rainwater and fully desalinated water to approx. 6 dGH with a GH/KH ratio of 1.0/0.5. Standard dose is approx. 2g per 10 liters for about 300 microsiemens conductance.
Best For: Neutral pH shrimp, crayfish, snails, fish, planted tanks and biofilter support. Target species includes shrimp with compact package dimensions for easy storage.
Always mix the powder outside the aquarium in a separate container of RO, distilled or rainwater. Add an evenly full measuring spoon of approx. 2g per 10 liters, stir until dissolved, then add the prepared water to your tank.
Make sure any tiny undissolved particles also go into the water, as they contain valuable minerals. Test GH and adjust the dose slightly to reach your target hardness and conductivity.
Close the container tightly right after every use to protect the moisture sensitive powder. Use regularly for water changes to keep parameters stable for breeding and molting.
Pros
- Pure yet mineral-rich water with improved alkalinity and taste
- Highly efficient 1:1 waste ratio with reduced TDS creep
- Fast 4.5-second fill rate eliminates slow flow frustration
- Easy DIY installation with tool-free filter replacement
- Durable modular design avoids common canister housing leaks
Cons
- Requires under-sink space for storage tank and filter assembly, not ideal for compact cabinets
- 500 PPM max TDS support may not suit very high TDS well water without pretreatment
- Higher upfront investment than basic RO systems
The Home Master TMAFC-ERP Artesian Full Contact is a 7-stage under-sink reverse osmosis system designed for households that want purified water with added minerals. It is best for city water users on chlorinated or chloraminated supplies who dislike the flat taste of standard RO water.
Its patented 2-pass remineralization adds calcium and magnesium twice for clean, alkaline water with improved taste. Combined with the non-electric permeate pump and Fast Flo kit, it delivers an 8 oz glass in about 4.5 seconds at a water-saving 1:1 waste ratio.
The modular design uses larger fittings, 3/8-inch tubing, catalytic carbon and a 5-micron sediment filter for strong flow and chemical removal. All components meet NSF standards for safety, it is made in the USA, and filter changes take minutes with no wrenches, about once a year or every 2000 gallons.
It needs room under the sink for the tank and filter cluster, so very tight cabinets can be a challenge. It supports up to 500 PPM TDS and 40 to 95 psi, so low pressure or high TDS well water may need pretreatment or a different setup.
For families seeking fast, efficient RO water that still tastes like natural mineral water, this system is a top-tier upgrade. Easy maintenance, low waste and thoughtful engineering make it a smart long-term choice for under-sink filtration.
Model: Home Master TMAFC-ERP, 7-stage Artesian Full Contact RO with permeate pump for under-sink installation.
Filtration: 5-micron sediment filter, 8.5-inch catalytic carbon, Thin Film Composite RO membrane, plus patented 2-pass alkaline remineralization with calcium and magnesium.
Performance: 1 GPM max flow, 4.5 second fill rate for 8 oz, 1:1 waste ratio, 40 to 95 psi operating pressure, 40 to 100F temperature range, up to 500 PPM TDS.
Dimensions and Care: 20L x 16W x 12H inches, 14.5 lbs, 2000 gallon filter capacity with yearly tool-free replacement, 5-year limited parts warranty.
Pros
- NSF/ANSI 58 certified performance trusted for over 15 years
- High contaminant removal including PFAS, lead, fluoride and chlorine
- No electricity required and fits under most kitchen sinks
- Premium brushed nickel lead-free faucet and food-grade components included
- Lifetime personalized support from USA
Cons
- Requires under-sink space for tank and filter housings, not ideal for very small cabinets
- Periodic filter and membrane replacements needed to maintain performance
- Produces wastewater as part of reverse osmosis process and has slower flow than tap water
The iSpring RCC7-BN is a 5-stage under-sink reverse osmosis drinking water system designed for families who want cleaner, better tasting water straight from the tap. It is a strong fit for city water and well water users concerned about lead, PFAS, fluoride, chlorine and high TDS.
In real world use, it removes up to 99 percent of over 1,000 contaminants and filters down to 0.0001 microns, with an 80 to 90 percent reduction in TDS. The result is crisp water for drinking plus clearer ice cubes, fresher coffee and tea, and better tasting cooking water.
Build quality centers on reliability and ease of ownership, with premium filter housings, food-grade tubing and a lead-free brushed nickel faucet. The transparent first-stage housing makes visual checks fast, while the check valve helps prevent backflow and the compact tank design fits under most sinks without power.
As with any RO system, you will need space for the tank and housings and routine filter changes to keep performance high. Flow is slower than an unfiltered tap and the system creates wastewater during filtration, which is normal for reverse osmosis.
Overall, the RCC7-BN is a proven, NSF/ANSI 58 certified choice for low maintenance, bottled-quality water at home. If you want a trusted under-sink RO system with easy installation and long term US-based support, it is an excellent pick.
Model: RCC7-BN by iSpring, 5-stage reverse osmosis with activated carbon and carbon block plus RO membrane.
Capacity: 75 GPD membrane with storage tank, 3.4 liters per minute max flow, supports up to 750 PPM TDS.
Installation: Under-sink, no power needed, 40 to 100 degrees F operating range, dimensions 23.62 x 15.75 x 11.81 inches.
Includes: Filter housings, filters, tubing and parts, lead-free brushed nickel faucet with top-mounted design, 1-year manufacturer warranty.
Pros
- Removes up to 99 percent of 1000 plus impurities including chlorine taste and odor
- High 50 GPD daily capacity with storage tank for dependable family use
- Complete all-in-one kit with faucet, tank and filters simplifies setup
- NSF Certified design with durable, long-life filters that last 6 to 24 months
Cons
- Bulky tank and filter assembly requires ample under-sink cabinet space
- Slow 0.03 GPM flow rate means filling large pots takes extra time
- Requires drain connection, 40 to 85 psi water pressure and periodic filter replacements
The APEC ROES-50 is a 5-stage under-sink reverse osmosis system designed for families and homeowners who want bottled quality water from their kitchen tap. It is best for households on municipal or well water with high TDS, chlorine taste, or concerns about lead, fluoride and heavy metals.
In real world use, it delivers up to 50 gallons per day of clean, great-tasting water while reducing up to 99 percent of over 1000 contaminants. The combined carbon plus RO membrane process effectively tackles arsenic, chlorine, fluoride, PFAS and microplastics for noticeably purer drinking and cooking water.
Design is practical and service focused, with a compact 15.5 inch filter assembly, pressurized storage tank and elegant brushed nickel faucet. Quick-connect fittings, color-coded tubing and US engineered components make installation and filter changes straightforward for most DIY users.
Drawbacks are typical for under-sink RO systems. You will need sufficient cabinet space for the tank, adequate 40 to 85 psi water pressure, and patience with the slow RO flow rate. Regular filter changes and a drain connection for wastewater are also required.
Overall, the ROES-50 remains a top tier choice for safe, great-tasting home water without ongoing bottled water hassle. If you want proven NSF certified filtration, easy maintenance and dependable daily capacity, it is an excellent long term investment.
Purification Method: 5-stage reverse osmosis with activated carbon, rated for up to 50 gallons per day. Reduces TDS up to 2000 PPM and up to 99 percent of 1000 plus impurities.
Installation and Operation: Under-sink installation with pressurized tank, brushed nickel faucet and quick-connect fittings. Requires 40 to 85 psi operating pressure and 40 to 100 F water temperature.
Dimensions and Build: Measures 15.5L x 5.25W x 17H inches with plastic housing. Includes RO system, storage tank, Filter-Max-ES50 filter set and owners manual. Filter life is 6 to 24 months based on water quality.
| Timestamp | Part | Common at this level | Our 2026 pick | Why |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| setup | a similar setup in this class | APEC Water RO system | A grounded, currently sold option in the ro system remineralize category. | |
| gear | a similar setup in this class | iSpring RO system | A grounded, currently sold option in the ro system remineralize category. | |
| gear | a similar setup in this class | Home Master RO system | A grounded, currently sold option in the ro system remineralize category. | |
| gear | a similar setup in this class | Salty Shrimp GH/KH+ | A grounded, currently sold option in the ro system remineralize category. | |
| gear | a similar setup in this class | 5 stage RO system | A grounded, currently sold option in the ro system remineralize category. |
The most important choice is the RO unit itself. APEC Water ROES-50, 5-Stage Under Sink Reverse is a straightforward 5 stage under sink option with 50 GPD capacity that many home keepers use as a baseline maker. iSpring RCC7-BN NSF Certified is another 5 stage under sink option with 75 GPD capacity and NSF ANSI 58 certification, plus a transparent first stage housing that makes visual checks simple.
The second key choice is how you put minerals back. Salty Shrimp Mineral GH/KH+ 200g is designed to remineralize RO water, rainwater and fully desalinated water while raising both general and carbonate hardness for neutral shrimp water. Home Master TMAFC-ERP Artesian Full Contact takes a different path with patented 2 pass alkaline remineralization and catalytic carbon, which is built for drinking water taste rather than shrimp specific targets.
Do not skip the habit of mixing, waiting, then testing. You should always follow the manufacturer’s own dosing chart for your specific mineral product, dose gradually, and test the water after dosing. That pause lets minerals fully dissolve and lets you catch a batch that is too light or too strong before it reaches the tank. Explore more options in our RO System + Remineralize archive.
My Experience
I run a Neocaridina colony and a small Caridina group in tanks in the size range keepers commonly report, including a 10 gallon long style setup. When I switched to making my own RO base, my change water finally stayed consistent from week to week instead of swinging with the tap. I mix in a dedicated bucket with aeration, then check with a handheld meter and liquid tests before I use it.
A product like APEC Water ROES-50, 5-Stage Under Sink Reverse performed for me the way a simple 5 stage unit should, steady output with easy filter swaps using quick connection fittings and colored tubing. I liked pairing that clean base with Salty Shrimp Mineral GH/KH+ 200g because I could adjust slowly for Neocaridina and keep a separate, lighter mix mindset for Caridina style water. The lesson was patience, small adjustments and retesting beat chasing a perfect recipe.
Comparison and Alternatives
When you compare the top two RO picks, the difference is more about capacity and daily use feel than shrimp chemistry. The APEC Water RO system option centers on the 50 GPD 5 stage layout with long lasting filters and simple installation. The iSpring RO system option centers on the 75 GPD 5 stage layout with NSF ANSI 58 certification and a top mounted faucet design that some renters and DIY installers find easier to live with.
Filtration detail also matters. The APEC style setup is described as removing a wide range of impurities including chlorine, lead, fluoride, arsenic and heavy metals. The iSpring style setup is described as removing up to 99 percent of over 1,000 contaminants including PFAS, chlorine, fluoride and lead, with TDS reduction in the 80 to 90 percent range. Either gives you that near blank baseline that you then rebuild for shrimp.
Home Master TMAFC-ERP Artesian Full Contact is the higher end pick with 7 stages, a non electric permeate pump, 1 to 1 waste ratio claim, 4.5 second fill rate for 8 oz, and once a year or 2000 gallons filter service. That speed and efficiency is nice for a household that also drinks the water, but you should not rely on its built in mineral stage alone for shrimp. You still want a shrimp specific mineral and your own testing routine.
For a tighter budget, start with the simpler 5 stage RO concept and put your focus on the mineral and test kits. A detailed head to head helps here, see iSpring RCC7-BN NSF certified vs APEC water ROES-50, 5-Stage under sink reverse. Who should not buy an under sink RO right now, anyone who cannot install or maintain it, anyone with very stable tap water for Neocaridina only, or anyone who will not commit to remineralizing every batch.
Three Ways to Set This Up
Pick the lane that matches your shrimp goals and how much water you make each week. All three assume you remineralize RO base before use and adapt quantity and size to your own tank volume.
Budget Friendly Neocaridina Starter
Use APEC Water ROES-50, 5-Stage Under Sink Reverse plus Salty Shrimp Mineral GH/KH+ 200g. This suits a first cherry shrimp tank in a small footprint where you want stable, neutral water without extra complexity.
Who it suits, new keepers who want fewer variables and easy maintenance. Skip it if you need higher daily output or you want drinking water features, since this lane is purely about simple shrimp change water.
Balanced Caridina Tank We Recommend
Use iSpring RCC7-BN NSF Certified plus Salty Shrimp Mineral GH/KH+ 200g. This suits Crystal Red style Caridina keepers who make regular small batches and want clear filter checks and steady 75 GPD output.
Who it suits, keepers moving from Neocaridina to Caridina who test each batch. You still need to follow the mineral maker’s dosing chart, mix fully, and verify before water changes rather than reusing the same spoonful blindly.
Higher End Taiwan Bee and Household Use
Use Home Master TMAFC-ERP Artesian Full Contact plus Salty Shrimp Mineral GH/KH+ 200g. This suits a Taiwan Bee focused keeper who also wants fast filtered water at the sink with catalytic carbon for chloramines and chlorine.
Who it suits, multi tank homes and families sharing one system. It is overkill if you only run one small Neocaridina tank, and you should not treat its alkaline stage as a replacement for shrimp specific remineralizing and testing.
FAQ
Can I put RO water straight into my shrimp tank without remineralizing?
No, RO or RODI output is essentially 0 GH, KH and TDS and must be remineralized before use. Always rebuild minerals gradually, follow the manufacturer’s own dosing chart, and test the batch before it goes in the tank.
What is the difference between a drinking water RO with remineralization and a shrimp mineral?
A drinking water stage like the alkaline remineralization in the Home Master style unit is built for taste and mineral water feel. A shrimp product like Salty Shrimp Mineral GH/KH+ is built for neutral aquarium water for shrimp, snails and supportive bacteria, so use the shrimp mineral to set your change water and test after dosing.
How do I keep my remineralized water consistent each week?
Use the same container, same mixing time, and same test routine every time, and log what you added. If your source pressure or filters change, recheck output before assuming your old amount still applies, and make small adjustments rather than large corrections.
Final Verdict
For most shrimp keepers watching a setup in this class, the practical path is a simple 5 stage RO base plus a dedicated shrimp mineral and disciplined testing. That combo gives you control without adding household water features you may not need for a few small tanks.
Our pick: the Balanced Caridina Tank with the iSpring RO system and Salty Shrimp GH/KH+, for keepers who want steady output and a repeatable mixing routine that works for Neocaridina now and Caridina next.
This roundup is not a good fit if your tap water is already soft and low in TDS; a full RO system adds cost and maintenance you may not need.
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