Long ago Vertex used stone diffusers and therefore we have experience with both type. Through independant testing as well as years of experience, it has been our finding that Membrane diffusers have countless advantages over the stone type. First, EPDM Membrane diffusers move more GPM with less CFM (thus energy/power consumption). They are much, much, much less maintenance labor - no need for acid baths which for stone diffusers can be needed as often as every other month in hard water conditions.
Membrane diffusers last longer and often carry a much longer warranty. Disks also release all the force of the bubbles in a flat upward direction rather than in all directions like stone and tube style diffusers. This helps to prevent distubing the bottom sediments.
Most aeration manufacturers have followed our lead and have switched from stone diffusers to membrane diffusers.
