I'm using NextReef SMR1 XL reactor with Np Biopellets. The reactor is fing awesome ! the Np biopellets are great but have to be careful not to use to much or you get a bacteria overdose that causes a cloud.
As for incorporating a refugium. I was told from a couple sources that it would be o.k. to use biopellets and chaeto at the same time. im finding that your better off using one or the other. I think the pellets and chaeto are redundant, but the biopellets have more advantages.
As for what brand of biopellets to use, i have no clue. but if they all do the same thing i would get the cheaper ones.
a refugium can always be turned into a cryptic zone
you can always keep the fuge for pods witch is what im doing with some sand and rock rubble