This is my first exploration with hydroponics, and this was a good kit to get started. I thought about trying to build my own using PVC pipe but honestly this proved out to be much easier, and actually less expensive than buying my own. Pros * Good spacing between holes, as long as you choose crops appropriately. I balance smaller growers (e.g. dill, lettuce, etc.) in between the larger plants to make sure my garden doesn't turn into a forest. * Pretty easy to set up. Only real tool that's required is a level - make sure you get it as close as possible to flat before you start using, otherwise you'll have some tubes that don't get enough water and nutrients. * Motor is surprisingly powerful, when it works. Cons * Whatever size of PVC pipe they use is not standard. I purchased some 1\" pipe so I could string up a couple grow lights, and they didn't fit (actual size is about 9/10\"). I had to do some \"don't try this at home\" stuff to heat and shape the PVC so it would fit. * The motor works, but the water pipe doesn't secure. Very easy to just pop off....more than once I came home to find my plants wilting from lack of fresh water and nutrient. I had to secure it with a metal clamp, which is not ideal for long term use, since it's submerged. * Would be nice if it was taller, so I could fit a standard storage tub underneath for water. I ended up buying a set of 3-inch furniture risers to raise the entire setup * Additional piping will be needed if you want it quiet. Out of the box, too much running/falling water makes for a rather loud experience. I ended up running the water pipe directly into one of the grow holes, and a few elbow joints and pipe extensions for the water return. It's very quiet now, but looks a little bit goofy.
steve 
