Either way. Apex controller is what, 560.00? Now look into the size of tank you want to move up to, and the price of it, including stand, sump, upgraded equipment such as skimmer, return pump, power heads, and lighting. Then decide which is the better payoff for you. If it was me, I already know the tank upgrade is going to be way more than the Apex, so I would look for the tank I really want and not settle for something that is less than or close to my ideal set-up.
If you look around, you can find good deals on both of these items. People come and go from this hobby all the time.