You do not need the controller. You can use the regular wall switch and just turn on and off the switch so many times to change the light show. That is how I do it for my 5g's. I am not sure if would be able to swap out the lights later for a generic version. I would imagine the light niches are not generic.

those lights will probably last a life time. but you won't be able to swap out bulbs. when it does, you pull out the whole light and cord and replace it.

note...i have about 350 of them installed, and not 1 failure.

Here is a link that might be useful: monogram custom pools

You will lose alot of color options or color modes by not putting in a controller look at a easy touch with salt system for the cost you'll get a lot of advantages .