Sorry that suggestion was a little broad, not all Neolamprologus are shelldwellers. A few more popular ones are Lamprologus brevis, L. multifaciatus and L. ocellatus. The multis max out at about 1.5" and are interesting to watch.
My tap is at a ridiculous 8.4 after it comes into equilibrium with the atmosphere.. My bettas and platties seem to be just fine.. Biological filter works great as well.