I tried using a DWC hydro bucket idea for just hydro and i could never keep the pH in check...some people say it is because of something having to do with the airstones...all I know is I use a cloner with no airstones now, just a submersible water pump and now have no issues...makes me want to try the hydro again...lol...Since it was the pH messing everything up before...anyway...perhaps it is the airstones...i don't understand why, but I do notice a difference without using one...so perhaps...I don't see how an airstone could cause pH issues, but it seems as though they actually might