Waterbox vs. Innovative Marine

[hllb]

Hi all,

Still trying to decide on a new tank for my upcoming move. I had decided on IM and was debating between INT and EXT, and the size. The one I thought I had decided on (IM EXT 75 in white), will now not be available until after I need it, so I started reviewing options. If I go up to the larger size I was considering, I could do either IM or Waterbox. Both have plusses and minuses for my use:

IM EXT 100: Would need a custom lid to accommodate light mounts; comes with a return pump, though not the one I'd purchase (I like the mighty jets, but would probably do Sicce SDC); a deeper tank front to back which is nice for the fish/aquascape but more difficult placement in my room

Waterbox EX 110.4: big issue is that its not yet released and is anticipated in January. Given my timeframe to move in February, there is leeway, but this feels extra risky; narrower front to back by about 5" which works better in my room; more storage in the cabinet due to smaller sump; I like the look of the stand better; comes with a screen top with light cutouts, so while I may wish to replace, would definitely be something I could do later.

If I move to an internal overflow, there are different plusses/minuses, but nothing is exactly what I want (which is why I went custom last time, but then it ended up not being built to spec anyway...sigh....and this time I don't have time).

From my research, both of these companies are well thought of. I have a small IM tank that I was quite impressed with which is why I initially picked them.

 

[mjszos]

I have 0 experience with Waterbox, and I have not yet received my IM order (probably next week or the following), but the one thing I can speak to is their customer service experience thus far - Brian specifically at IM has been absolutely fantastic to deal with. No idea how their CS is in the event of any problems so that's still to be determined, but with my experience thus far I would recommend IM simply due to how they seem to conduct business.

 

[nickng]

I have 0 experience with Waterbox, and I have not yet received my IM order (probably next week or the following), but the one thing I can speak to is their customer service experience thus far - Brian specifically at IM has been absolutely fantastic to deal with. No idea how their CS is in the event of any problems so that's still to be determined, but with my experience thus far I would recommend IM simply due to how they seem to conduct business.

Likewise I can say IM customer service is excellent. I had a defective drain pipe, spoke to someone at IM over the phone and a replacement was sent out right away

 

[BryanM]

Either is a great choice. I am enjoying my waterbox infinia reef 220.6.

 

[hllb]

Either is a great choice. I am enjoying my waterbox infinia reef 220.6.

How do you like the stand? I've read a fair number of complaints about the door alignment and cheap hinges that break easily.

 

[Dragen Fiend]

For the value, Innovative marine. However if you don't plan on using their return pumps and other equipment. I'd go waterbox. Both equally good in terms of glass and building quality.

 

[BryanM]

How do you like the stand? I've read a fair number of complaints about the door alignment and cheap hinges that break easily.

I think aligning cabinet doors is a black art of some sort.

The stand is solid, and I think the hinges are fine too. I had to youtube a couple videos for how the hinge adjustments worked, and I'm happy with them now.

 

[exnisstech]

No experience with the IM. I've been happy with my WB 330.7 but it has only been running 10 months. I'm not sure about door alignment. The hinges are adjustable and I had to adjust mine to get them aligned but it was easy. I've had no issues with hinges breaking.
CS has been excellent when I've had concerns. They've even reached out to engineering to get answers to some of my questions I had which I appreciate and doesn't always happen.
I'm not using the lids because I don't keep fish that are typical jumpers plus the huge eurobrace will prevent them from jumping at an edge or corner.
A fellow member designed a light mount for me that I attached to t slot stand frame.

 

[hllb]

It may come down to what is available. Most things from waterbox that I'm interested in are backordered or preordered. Some of the stuff from IM is in stock, and others are backordered. I only have about a 3 week window to get something delivered and setup.

 

[jimfish98]

I think you would be good with either tank. I have not heard anything bad about IM and use one of their pumps in my Waterbox 25g. I also have the 130.4 from Waterbox and it has been up and running for years without issue.

If timing is in question, call up the local shops and see what they have as they may have one in stock and ready to deliver.