I read your post the same day that I sent off my order for an Alkaline Water tank. I too became interested in trying alkaline, Ionized Water but hesitated because of the price of the units. I found an overseas site which sells a lower priced tank as it is more "manual" that is, you need your own pH meter and take periodic measurements until the pH level you want is reached. The site claims the tank uses iridium plates. I'm sure there are similar units available in the U.S. If alkaline, Ionized Water lives up to its testimonials I probably will graduate to a more expensive and convenient unit later on. Good luck.