I haven't used EC, but I love my aquasoil. I did have a lot of ammonia and organics leaching into the water, but like Tom said, use those methods to reduce the ammonia, and you will be ok. Just dont add a bunch of livestock right away. I'm glad I went through the initial hassle with aquasoil, because now everything looks great. But like I said, I don't really have anything else except plain gravel to compare it to.

I ordered my aquasoil from ADGShop and it really wasn't too expensive. Plus, I think a good substrate is one of the more important places to invest your money in. My opinion.

Good luck!

-Mike B-