Well I did it! I took advantage of the RAP special and ordered a Crystal Dynamics 72"x24"x24" tank with Starfire glass. Here are the specs:
- 180 Gallon, Euro braced, reinforced seems and Starboard bottom
- 30” Modular Marine external overflow
- Custom white stand. The style is "Cardiff" which has a modern look. I opted for doors on both sides with electrical panel.
- Trigger CR44 sump, 1.5” Animal Bean plumbing with 2 valve manifold
I have put down my deposit and waiting for the build order. I have to temper my excitement as I expect it won't be ready for a couple of months. On the bright side, I can use this time to save some cash for the rest of the equipment. Here is what is on the list:
- 5 Ecotech Radion XR15w G4 PROs which I plan to hang. I was seriously thinking of the Atlantik Orphek v4 but decided against them because I want to control using Apex. I can still change my mind though...
- Marco Rocks. I have used before. This time I am going to look for some good live rock from the local LFS to seed. I used to think starting with all dry would mean no bad hitchhikers... but they seem to find their way in anyway.
- Apex Controller. I have one already and I like it. I work in IT so an Apex right up my alley.
- Thinking of using Maxspec Gyre 350s for the wave pumps. Still up in the air on this one.
- Bubble Magus Curve 7 Elite Skimmer which I picked up at RAP for a steal.
- Alkatronic. I have one already which I won from a raffle. I have been using it on my Waterbox 75.2 and I absolutely love it. Then again, I am a gadget geek
The plan is for an SPS dominant system with no sand. I am drawn to SPS tanks and have been inspired to set one up myself. I expect the build will be a slow one as I plan on taking my time and enjoy the build. You can expect lots of pictures though.
I belong to an awesome reef club here in SoCal, the Southern California Marine Aquarium Assoc. or #SCMAS. Hopefully I will get a lot of advice and help alone the way. Some of the member tanks are spectacular!
So follow along and feel free to share your wisdom. I will need all of the help I can get.
- 180 Gallon, Euro braced, reinforced seems and Starboard bottom
- 30” Modular Marine external overflow
- Custom white stand. The style is "Cardiff" which has a modern look. I opted for doors on both sides with electrical panel.
- Trigger CR44 sump, 1.5” Animal Bean plumbing with 2 valve manifold
I have put down my deposit and waiting for the build order. I have to temper my excitement as I expect it won't be ready for a couple of months. On the bright side, I can use this time to save some cash for the rest of the equipment. Here is what is on the list:
- 5 Ecotech Radion XR15w G4 PROs which I plan to hang. I was seriously thinking of the Atlantik Orphek v4 but decided against them because I want to control using Apex. I can still change my mind though...
- Marco Rocks. I have used before. This time I am going to look for some good live rock from the local LFS to seed. I used to think starting with all dry would mean no bad hitchhikers... but they seem to find their way in anyway.
- Apex Controller. I have one already and I like it. I work in IT so an Apex right up my alley.
- Thinking of using Maxspec Gyre 350s for the wave pumps. Still up in the air on this one.
- Bubble Magus Curve 7 Elite Skimmer which I picked up at RAP for a steal.
- Alkatronic. I have one already which I won from a raffle. I have been using it on my Waterbox 75.2 and I absolutely love it. Then again, I am a gadget geek
The plan is for an SPS dominant system with no sand. I am drawn to SPS tanks and have been inspired to set one up myself. I expect the build will be a slow one as I plan on taking my time and enjoy the build. You can expect lots of pictures though.
I belong to an awesome reef club here in SoCal, the Southern California Marine Aquarium Assoc. or #SCMAS. Hopefully I will get a lot of advice and help alone the way. Some of the member tanks are spectacular!
So follow along and feel free to share your wisdom. I will need all of the help I can get.
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