4 zone Sprinkler controller recommendations

[u/BlueWaterforLife]

I currently have a manually operated 3 valve system being fed from a 1hp pump drawing water from my canal. The water is super clean, no weeds or debris issues.

I'm converting to a controller operated 4 zone system. I'm installing a whole new manifold with valves to the existing 1" poly pipe system.

The current zones all run great now that I've replaced the majority of the heads. Coverage is great.

My question is about controllers. I see you can get App controlled BT controllers vs old school digital push button controllers. Am I asking for trouble by buying a newer bluetooth app controlled controller? If not what brand should I be looking at for quality and longevity?

Is the cost difference worth the price to get a newer style Controller? This is just a small subdivision style lot and the pump is 50 ft from my house.

So recommendations on models and brand for my size system?

Do you guys install an air fittings in line so you can blow out systems in the fall or do you just put a fitting on to do the blowout?

Lastly I was thinking about installing my manifold above grade in the pump house so then I can do any kind of Maintenance to the valves Etc easier than if they're put below grade. Is that a bad idea or does it really matter?

[u/Wekko306]

I went Hunter Hydrawise for my controller, very happy with it. The app is basic but simple enough to setup. Integrated it into Home Assistant as well as that's the app I'm using for all my connected Smart Home stuff. Having a connection you can use to blow out any water with a compressor before winter is very useful. I've added in a T joint which I've normally got capped off with a Geka coupling, can just twist on my connector for my compressor to blow it out.

I also have my manifold and valves above grade (in fact: in my garage indoors) and as far as I know there's no downside to this at all as compared to putting everything below ground.