Hello everyone:
Started to look at researching equipment as I try to get back into the hobby. It's amazing how much newer options there are compared to the nano reefs I was doing years ago.
I know the old adage is the larger the volume the better, but I also wonder if nano tanks are beneficial for its ease to fix issues (if parameters suddenly worsens, can do massive WC, instead of having to worry about supplementing elements, dosing, can do wc).
My goal is to have a more largely coral oriented tank (mix SPS/LPS) with perhaps a few fish.
Wanted some thoughts on some combinations below:
Red Sea Reefer MAX G2+
this seems relatively turn-key, but obviously overpriced, and my experience with packages are that you have less control over specific components and that some of them aren't as nice as what you can piece together on your own.
IM NUVO Fusion:
the appeal of the AIO is that i don't have to worry about bulkhead leakage and maintaining a sump, but with my prior experience with AIO such as biocubes, when you start adding equipment it ends up being more and more unsightly because the back chambers are fairly limiting. This is probably not a big deal, but the thought of being able to do water changes from the sump feels easier (i don't have to drain the display portion to do WC).
IM Nuvo EXT:
The thought is that the sump would open up possibilities, i can hide equipment down there. I can get a properly sized protein skimmer. I can do WC from the sump without disturbing the DT (more frequent, smaller changes).
The plan for equipment:
Lights: i would look at kessil (I like the spotlight/MH like lighting effect, and with the AP9x out, i suspect that can light both those tanks without needing much supplement).
Water movement: AI Nero 5x x 2 vs Ecotech MP40
Protein skimmer: Hold off until after cycle and reassess (i'm thinking of stocking max 3 fish and mostly coral, i'm not even sure the bioload will be high enough to necessitate aggressive skimming).
Controller: Neptune apex vs Coralvue Hydros
(i was trying to save by not using a controller again, but i feel like the piece of mind would be worth it since I work a lot, being able to monitor parameters, failsafes for thermometers, etc. I only have experience with apex, but the earlier versions of apex).
Or...am i over thinking this and should just stick with a smaller nano such as a 10G to start since i'm essentially a beginner again?
thanks!
Started to look at researching equipment as I try to get back into the hobby. It's amazing how much newer options there are compared to the nano reefs I was doing years ago.
I know the old adage is the larger the volume the better, but I also wonder if nano tanks are beneficial for its ease to fix issues (if parameters suddenly worsens, can do massive WC, instead of having to worry about supplementing elements, dosing, can do wc).
My goal is to have a more largely coral oriented tank (mix SPS/LPS) with perhaps a few fish.
Wanted some thoughts on some combinations below:
Red Sea Reefer MAX G2+
Reefer MAX 250 G2+ System (54 Gal)
Reefer MAX Series - Ultimate Plug and Play Aquariums All Reefer G2+ tanks are now available in a MAX configuration with the optimal water management, filtration, circulation, and lighting—all controllable with the Red Sea ReefBeat app. Going with the MAX means no hassle in deciding which...
www.bulkreefsupply.com
this seems relatively turn-key, but obviously overpriced, and my experience with packages are that you have less control over specific components and that some of them aren't as nice as what you can piece together on your own.
IM NUVO Fusion:
50 NUVO Fusion Lagoon PRO 2 AIO Aquarium with Black APS Stand
A Small Slice of the Ocean with Sophistication and Style! Build a welcoming environment for yourself with the most advanced AIO in its class. Keeping in line with the features of their award-winning successor, the Fusion 50 Lagoon has super-wide display making aquascaping fun and the redesigned...
www.bulkreefsupply.com
the appeal of the AIO is that i don't have to worry about bulkhead leakage and maintaining a sump, but with my prior experience with AIO such as biocubes, when you start adding equipment it ends up being more and more unsightly because the back chambers are fairly limiting. This is probably not a big deal, but the thought of being able to do water changes from the sump feels easier (i don't have to drain the display portion to do WC).
IM Nuvo EXT:
Nuvo EXT 50 Gallon Complete Reef System - White
Innovative Marine now offers a complete aquarium system for those wishing to skip the tedious learning curve of building and plumbing an aquarium sump. Their all-in-one aquarium package solution includes the following: 50 Gallon EXT Aquarium White APS Aquarium Stand Reef Filtration Series 22"...
www.bulkreefsupply.com
The thought is that the sump would open up possibilities, i can hide equipment down there. I can get a properly sized protein skimmer. I can do WC from the sump without disturbing the DT (more frequent, smaller changes).
The plan for equipment:
Lights: i would look at kessil (I like the spotlight/MH like lighting effect, and with the AP9x out, i suspect that can light both those tanks without needing much supplement).
Water movement: AI Nero 5x x 2 vs Ecotech MP40
Protein skimmer: Hold off until after cycle and reassess (i'm thinking of stocking max 3 fish and mostly coral, i'm not even sure the bioload will be high enough to necessitate aggressive skimming).
Controller: Neptune apex vs Coralvue Hydros
(i was trying to save by not using a controller again, but i feel like the piece of mind would be worth it since I work a lot, being able to monitor parameters, failsafes for thermometers, etc. I only have experience with apex, but the earlier versions of apex).
Or...am i over thinking this and should just stick with a smaller nano such as a 10G to start since i'm essentially a beginner again?
thanks!