Barry's 120 Gallon Reef

Siderjan · Sep 10, 2011

I just returned from picking up my new to me 120 gallon tank. Yes I am still alive. Kim is a little pissed that I bought it without consulting her, but I think she'll enjoy it.

Anyone want to help me unload it? She refuses to carry it the 4' it needs to go to the garage.

The dimensions of the tank is 48" x 24" x 24".

It came with a metal stand that has more rust on it then my 13 year old car does.

The back of the tank is blue, but thank gawd it's only a back ground. I'm off to pick up some black spray paint when I take the truck back to work tomorrow.

It needs a major cleaning, and the overflow should be redone with bulkheads as it's just siliconed ABS right now. This thread may be one of the slowest in history, but when it's done I won't have any of the headaches I've had with my current tank.

Siderjan · Sep 19, 2011

Neopimp · Sep 19, 2011

could save money on the sand using the stuff that Eco reefer sells too... just buy one small bag of live sand to seed the rest of it

not sure what the cost savings isbut worth a look.

Edit: Just noticed it was black snad.. eco reefer has the white bahamian fine sand.

Darryl_V · Sep 19, 2011

When I first stated in the hobby I wanted to get everything as cheap as I could. This eventually resulted in buying things like skimmers and lighting multiple times.....costing more. Today I have enough experience to recognize the cheap products for what they are but I still try to find the most value in my equipment. Value is when you get a product that performs as well as a more expensive product for a better price.

My recommendations are below.......

Siderjan link said:
Here's my equipment list for the tank. Any suggestions on anything that should be changed or is cheaper elsewhere, please feel free to drop me a hint or 2 or 3.

120 Gallon Setup

Stand
Pioneer Cabinetry

Plumbing
Me
Lowes in Brantford is a good place to get plumbing supplies. Or there is a place (can't remember the name) on the outskirt of london just east of Airport Rd. on Dundas that does tons of PVC supplies. Both these places wont have the type of bulkheads you need. I always get mine bulkhead from BRS when I order other stuff

Renovations
Me

Skimmer - $125
Bubble-Magus BM-NAV6A. I'm guessing that's the one it is.
You might not like what I'm about to say but you can choose not to listen. IMO that skimmer is too small. You need one about twice that powerful. A skimmer is one of the most important parts of a successful reef tank. If you do decide to go with something different I can give you some recommendations

Sump - $60.00
http://london.kijiji.ca/c-pets-accessories-45-Gallon-LONG-Aquarium-QUICK-SALE-W0QQAdIdZ311419848
Those are odd dimensions for a sump. I would pay no more than $50 for that tank either...maybe less. What I have always used for a sump and works great is a standard 40g breeder tank. They are not much more than $100 and you can silcone some glass baffles for cheap. The dimensions on that tank are 36\"lx18\"Wx16\" high . I sump that is a little wider and shorter will be easier to work in and not cost you a lot more for a new tank

Lights - $299 + shipping, exchange & customs
http://www.aquatraders.com/48-716W-Metal-Halide-T5-LED-Combo-p/54267.htm
I'm a little apprehensive about this light. I have not heard a lot of good stories about odyessa but I don't have any pesonal experience so I can say too much. I'm still going to recommend you go with t5ho though. Either retro in something in a hood or get a 8-10 bulb tek unit...they can be had for pretty cheap new and even cheaper used. Also t5ho are more efficient so you will be saving electricity

Live Rock - $2.99/lbs = $405.44
http://www.eco-reefer.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1_6&products_id=1 Seems good...nothing wrong with dry rock...just seed it with a bit of live established rock. Remember not to overload your tank with rock though.

6 Bags Substrate - $201.03 + shipping
http://www.jlaquatics.com/product/cs-alipb20/Caribsea+Arag-Alive+Indo+Pacific+Black+Substrate+-+20+lbs..html
Live sand is a gimmick....don't bother. Also most people dont use black for a reason. I would like to recommend a type of sand but I want to know what you are planning....DSB or SSB?
2 Heaters - $69.27 + shipping
http://www.jlaquatics.com/product/ht-eb300/Jager+300+Watt+Aquarium+Heater+%28Eheim%29.html
Heaters look good but don't forget a temp controller of some type. People lose tanks all the time because heaters get stuck on. I use a simple industrial temp controller for about $80 but you can also get a small fancy reefkeeper lite to do the job and control a few other things for not much more

Auto-top Off - $158.14 + shipping
http://www.jlaquatics.com/phpstore/store_pages/product-info.php?product_ID=am-d278015 Can this idea right now. The aquamedic is crap. To tell you the truth I don't use JandL for much either. There are two ways you can do this. If you can store the top up water higher than your sump you can use a solenoid and float switches. If not then you can use a dosing pump or small pump (such as a maxijet) and float switches. I would use www.autotopoff.com or www.bulkreefsupply for equipment

Test Kit â $228.98 + shipping
http://www.jlaquatics.com/product/el-tzset/Elos+Aqua+Test+Complete+Marine+Set.html
hmm...that seems like a lot of money for test kits. Get a decent alkalinity, calcium and magnesium test kit and a cheap Nitrate kit and your set

Refractometer - $50.79 + shipping
http://www.jlaquatics.com/product/vt-refract/Vertex+Salinity+Refractometer.html
Refactometers are a good idea..

Thermometer - $41.75 + shipping
http://www.jlaquatics.com/product/mc-bdalt/Lifegard+Aquatics+Lifegard+Big+Digital+Alert+Thermometer.html
If you get a reefkeeper lite or Ranco temp controller....you don't need this

Powerheads - $101.11 + shipping
http://www.jlaquatics.com/product/hy-kor03a/Hydor+Koralia+Evolution+Powerhead+%281050+GPH%29.html
http://www.jlaquatics.com/product/hy-kor01B/Hydor+Koralia+Evolution+Powerhead+%28550+GPH%29.html
Nothing wrong with the hydor pumps....not the best but good value.

Bulk Heads & Fittings - $144.70 + shipping
2 @ http://www.jlaquatics.com/product/pl-bhs15/Standard+Threaded+Bulkhead+Fitting+%281-1+2%22%29.html
2 @ http://www.jlaquatics.com/product/pl-bhd075/Double+Threaded+Bulkhead+Fitting+%283+4%22%29.html
6 @ http://www.jlaquatics.com/product/pl-mp034/3+4%22+Modular+Piping+Fitting+-+6%22+Length.html
2 @ http://www.jlaquatics.com/product/pl-mp034m/3+4%22+Modular+Piping+MPT+Connector+Fitting.html
4 @ http://www.jlaquatics.com/product/pl-mp034fn/3+4%22+Modular+Piping+Flare+Nozzle+Fitting.html
2 @ http://www.jlaquatics.com/product/pl-mp034y/3+4%22+Modular+Piping+Y+Fitting.html
1 @ http://www.jlaquatics.com/product/pl-mp012zp/1+2%22+Modular+Piping+Assembly+Pliers.html Again...I usually don't use JL aquatics for much

RODI Unit - $150 + Shipping, exchange & customs
http://filterdirect.com/product_info.php?cPath=21&products_id=204I usually recommend BRS for RO/DI supplies......but some things to look for if you can is a 75gpd dow filmtec membrane, a pressure gauage and a dual TDS meter. I can make specific recommendations if you want

Salt - $180.78
http://www.incredibleaquarium.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=22_125&products_id=148 Reef Cystals is good....but I like my regular IO just as good as anything...and its cheaper. Wait till big als boxing day sale and you can get it for really cheap.

TDS Meter - $39.31
http://www.incredibleaquarium.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=43&products_id=84 Again, I recommend a dual in-line tds meter....very very handy and worth it...not very expensive at BRS too.

Pump - $201.08 + shipping
http://www.jlaquatics.com/product/wp-mag18/Danner+Mag-Drive+1800+Supreme+Water+Pump.html DO you really want/need such a large return pump?

Black Acylic For Corner Overflow - $33.90
Parker Plastics

Resealing Tank - $??.??
Blob-97

$2456.38 + stand, plumping supplies & renovations

Blob-79 · Sep 19, 2011

i see his point. both the bubble magus6a and swc160 are borderline. Considering your looking at spending around $2500 already, whats a few more hundred

I also recomend you look at www.bulkreefsupply.com for your RODI and bulkheads, they carry Tek lights also, think you get 25% off bulbs when you buy the light also.

Neopimp · Sep 19, 2011

I got the BRS RODI Plus unit... 75gpd.. tds meter.. pres gauge... it was like 180 somethign i think.

I liek the super Reef Octo skimmers with the bubble blasters... but considering how new I am to the hobby I dont have experirence with anythign else. However I did not find any bad things said about them . I got an XP2000 Cone for less than 400. I run 120 gal as well.

I am kinda biased to bigg ass pumps

so I cant judge their.

I really hope I never take the time to lay out everythign I have spent on a single piece of paper ... its scary

Siderjan · Sep 19, 2011

Thanks Darryl, Blob & Neopimp for your input!! That's why I asked for it. Go ahead and send me your recommendations Darryl!! I've done this once more then once if you know what I mean. Bought a PC light for $100 then turned around a few months later and bought a T5 fixture for 200. You can either PM me or post it here.

Siderjan · Sep 19, 2011

Thanks Darryl!! I asked a few more questions, and asked for advice.

My recommendations are below.......

Plumbing
Me
Lowes in Brantford is a good place to get plumbing supplies. Or there is a place (can't remember the name) on the outskirt of london just east of Airport Rd. on Dundas that does tons of PVC supplies. Both these places wont have the type of bulkheads you need. I always get mine bulkhead from BRS when I order other stuff

I'd like to order from BRS, but isn't there duty on a the stuff? I'll look for the place in London the next time I'm up there. What PVC solvent do you recommend?

Skimmer - $125
Bubble-Magus BM-NAV6A. I'm guessing that's the one it is.
You might not like what I'm about to say but you can choose not to listen. IMO that skimmer is too small. You need one about twice that powerful. A skimmer is one of the most important parts of a successful reef tank. If you do decide to go with something different I can give you some recommendations

What do you recommend I get? I'd like to get one ASAP as I need one for my current tank as the one I have is a piece is junk. Blob seems to think it'll help clear up my algae problem.

Sump - $60.00
http://london.kijiji.ca/c-pets-accessories-45-Gallon-LONG-Aquarium-QUICK-SALE-W0QQAdIdZ311419848
Those are odd dimensions for a sump. I would pay no more than $50 for that tank either...maybe less. What I have always used for a sump and works great is a standard 40g breeder tank. They are not much more than $100 and you can silcone some glass baffles for cheap. The dimensions on that tank are 36"lx18"Wx16" high . I sump that is a little wider and shorter will be easier to work in and not cost you a lot more for a new tank

Good point. 40 Breeder was my first choice, but found the 45 and have the room under the stand for it. I haven't bought anything yet. Glass is free for me so I was going to silicone my own baffles in.

Lights - $299 + shipping, exchange & customs
http://www.aquatraders.com/48-716W-Metal-Halide-T5-LED-Combo-p/54267.htm
I'm a little apprehensive about this light. I have not heard a lot of good stories about odyessa but I don't have any pesonal experience so I can say too much. I'm still going to recommend you go with t5ho though. Either retro in something in a hood or get a 8-10 bulb tek unit...they can be had for pretty cheap new and even cheaper used. Also t5ho are more efficient so you will be saving electricity

I'll look into them. I was told MH & T5's were needed for a 24" deep tank.

Live Rock - $2.99/lbs = $405.44
http://www.eco-reefer.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1_6&products_id=1 Seems good...nothing wrong with dry rock...just seed it with a bit of live established rock. Remember not to overload your tank with rock though.

I was thinking on 120Lbs, and seeding it with a couple of the rocks I have in my current tank.

6 Bags Substrate - $201.03 + shipping
http://www.jlaquatics.com/product/cs-alipb20/Caribsea+Arag-Alive+Indo+Pacific+Black+Substrate+-+20+lbs..html
Live sand is a gimmick....don't bother. Also most people dont use black for a reason. I would like to recommend a type of sand but I want to know what you are planning....DSB or SSB?

SSB. I was thinking 1". I wasn't going to get live sand, they didn't have a listing for non live black. I can't think of what I have now, but it's Caribsea something. I'll go white and seed it with a cup or two from what I have now. Why don't people use black?

2 Heaters - $69.27 + shipping
http://www.jlaquatics.com/product/ht-eb300/Jager+300+Watt+Aquarium+Heater+%28Eheim%29.html
Heaters look good but don't forget a temp controller of some type. People lose tanks all the time because heaters get stuck on. I use a simple industrial temp controller for about $80 but you can also get a small fancy reefkeeper lite to do the job and control a few other things for not much more

I'd like to keep some SPS later, and know I'll have to do some dosing. Will the reef keeper do that?

Auto-top Off - $158.14 + shipping
http://www.jlaquatics.com/phpstore/store_pages/product-info.php?product_ID=am-d278015 Can this idea right now. The aquamedic is crap. To tell you the truth I don't use JandL for much either. There are two ways you can do this. If you can store the top up water higher than your sump you can use a solenoid and float switches. If not then you can use a dosing pump or small pump (such as a maxijet) and float switches. I would use www.autotopoff.com or www.bulkreefsupply for equipment

My storage water is going to be pumped as it's going to be stored half way across the room.

Test Kit â $228.98 + shipping
http://www.jlaquatics.com/product/el-tzset/Elos+Aqua+Test+Complete+Marine+Set.html
hmm...that seems like a lot of money for test kits. Get a decent alkalinity, calcium and magnesium test kit and a cheap Nitrate kit and your set

I have a cheap API now. What brand do you recommend I get?

Refractometer - $50.79 + shipping
http://www.jlaquatics.com/product/vt-refract/Vertex+Salinity+Refractometer.html
Refactometers are a good idea..

Yup. Agreed. I have a swing arm now and just take water samples to Lyle to get him to check it since I can't trust the one I have now.

Thermometer - $41.75 + shipping
http://www.jlaquatics.com/product/mc-bdalt/Lifegard+Aquatics+Lifegard+Big+Digital+Alert+Thermometer.html
If you get a reefkeeper lite or Ranco temp controller....you don't need this

$42 to be spent elsewhere!!

Powerheads - $101.11 + shipping
http://www.jlaquatics.com/product/hy-kor03a/Hydor+Koralia+Evolution+Powerhead+%281050+GPH%29.html
http://www.jlaquatics.com/product/hy-kor01B/Hydor+Koralia+Evolution+Powerhead+%28550+GPH%29.html
Nothing wrong with the hydor pumps....not the best but good value.

I looked at other pumps, and just couldnt' see spending that much money. I had one on my old 55 and loved it, but it was too big for the tank and blew my shrooms all over the place.

Bulk Heads & Fittings - $144.70 + shipping
2 @ http://www.jlaquatics.com/product/pl-bhs15/Standard+Threaded+Bulkhead+Fitting+%281-1+2%22%29.html
2 @ http://www.jlaquatics.com/product/pl-bhd075/Double+Threaded+Bulkhead+Fitting+%283+4%22%29.html
6 @ http://www.jlaquatics.com/product/pl-mp034/3+4%22+Modular+Piping+Fitting+-+6%22+Length.html
2 @ http://www.jlaquatics.com/product/pl-mp034m/3+4%22+Modular+Piping+MPT+Connector+Fitting.html
4 @ http://www.jlaquatics.com/product/pl-mp034fn/3+4%22+Modular+Piping+Flare+Nozzle+Fitting.html
2 @ http://www.jlaquatics.com/product/pl-mp034y/3+4%22+Modular+Piping+Y+Fitting.html
1 @ http://www.jlaquatics.com/product/pl-mp012zp/1+2%22+Modular+Piping+Assembly+Pliers.html Again...I usually don't use JL aquatics for much

I'll see what BRS' prices are like on them. I just don't like giving the government more money then I need to.

RODI Unit - $150 + Shipping, exchange & customs
http://filterdirect.com/product_info.php?cPath=21&products_id=204 I usually recommend BRS for RO/DI supplies......but some things to look for if you can is a 75gpd dow filmtec membrane, a pressure gauage and a dual TDS meter. I can make specific recommendations if you want

Yes please.

Salt - $180.78
http://www.incredibleaquarium.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=22_125&products_id=148 Reef Cystals is good....but I like my regular IO just as good as anything...and its cheaper. Wait till big als boxing day sale and you can get it for really cheap.

I need it now. LOL! Just used the last of mine for my water change. What kind is it you use?

TDS Meter - $39.31
http://www.incredibleaquarium.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=43&products_id=84 Again, I recommend a dual in-line tds meter....very very handy and worth it...not very expensive at BRS too.

Noted and will look into it!!

Pump - $201.08 + shipping
http://www.jlaquatics.com/product/wp-mag18/Danner+Mag-Drive+1800+Supreme+Water+Pump.html DO you really want/need such a large return pump?

What size would you recommend? Water is being pumped up about 4'

Blob-79 · Sep 19, 2011

just so you know, BRS covers all the duties and taxes and stuff in the checkout price. you pay nothing at the door.

Siderjan · Sep 19, 2011

Blob-79 link said:
just so you know, BRS covers all the duties and taxes and stuff in the checkout price. you pay nothing at the door.

Sweet. Thanks for the info!! I better go up to the powerful laptop and start searching. This old desktop is really slow. How long does it take an order to come, & what's your CC#?

Siderjan · Sep 20, 2011

Here's my updated list from BRS. Doesn't include, rock, salt, and substrate as shipping for those 3 items was over $225 + I can get them locally and save more then the shipping charge is. Comments always welcome!!

75 GPD RO/DI 5 STAGE *PLUS* SYSTEM $199.99 1 $199.99
DUAL INLINE TDS METER DM-1 HM DIGITAL $29.40 1 $29.40
3/4" LOC-LINE MODULAR HOSE (6 SEGMENTS) $5.40 4 $21.60
3" FLARE NOZZLE FOR 3/4" LOC-LINE MODULAR HOSE $4.49 2 $8.98
Y FITTING FOR 3/4" LOC-LINE MODULAR HOSE $3.99 2 $7.98
3/4" NPT CONNECTOR FOR 3/4" LOC-LINE MODULAR HOSE $1.49 2 $2.98
HYDOR KORALIA EVOLUTION 1400 $57.99 1 $57.99
3/4â ABS BULKHEAD THREAD X THREAD $4.49 2 $8.98
1 1/2â ABS BULKHEAD THREAD X THREAD $6.29 1 $6.29
DANNER MAG-DRIVE SUPREME 3 - 350 GPH WATER PUMP $64.99 1 $64.99
REEF FANATIC LEVEL CONTROLLER (AUTO TOP OFF) $99.99 1 $99.99
REEF OCTOPUS 8" PINWHEEL IN SUMP SKIMMER OCT NWB200 $279.99 1 $279.99
48â X 8 BULB SUNLIGHT SUPPLY TEK LIGHT T5 FIXTURE $373.99 1 $373.99
54W - 48IN ATI PURPLE PLUS T5 HO FLUORESCENT BULB $20.99 1 $20.99
54W - 48IN 12000K ATI AQUABLUE SPECIAL T5 HO FLUORESCENT BULB $21.99 3 $65.97
54W - 48IN ATI BLUE PLUS T5 HO FLUORESCENT BULB $20.99 2 $41.98
RED SEA REEF FOUNDATION PRO MULTI TEST KIT (CA, KH, MG) $49.99 1 $49.99
REEFKEEPER LITE L3 PLUS - DIGITAL AQUATICS $269.99 1 $269.99
REFRACTOMETER FOR READING SALINITY W/ FREE CALIBRATION FLUID $39.99 1 $39.99
FINNEX 300W SUBMERSIBLE DIGITAL HEATER $24.95 1 $24.95
FINNEX 200W SUBMERSIBLE DIGITAL HEATER $22.95 1 $22.95

Subtotal $1,699.96
Discount $-37.24
Rewards Redemption $0.00
Shipping & Handling (UPS - Retail Orders Over $175 Ship FREE - Canada Standard) $218.52
Tax $240.02
Grand Total $2,121.26

Darryl_V · Sep 20, 2011

Now we are talking...but still some a few more helpful suggestions

Siderjan link said:
Here's my updated list from BRS. Doesn't include, rock, salt, and substrate as shipping for those 3 items was over $225 + I can get them locally and save more then the shipping charge is. Comments always welcome!!

75 GPD RO/DI 5 STAGE *PLUS* SYSTEM $199.99 1 $199.99Get in on a \"group buy\" its easy and happening all the time on other forums....everyone pays seperate and all orders are shipped seperate...and you get the lowest price so this would be $180
DUAL INLINE TDS METER DM-1 HM DIGITAL $29.40 1 $29.40 The above unit comes with this....so not needed. Although you might want to get a couple of sets of prefitlers to last the year.
3/4\" LOC-LINE MODULAR HOSE (6 SEGMENTS) $5.40 4 $21.60 You don't really need loc line...especially if you are going lower flow through the sump...just a 45 elbow is fine
3\" FLARE NOZZLE FOR 3/4\" LOC-LINE MODULAR HOSE $4.49 2 $8.98
Y FITTING FOR 3/4\" LOC-LINE MODULAR HOSE $3.99 2 $7.98
3/4\" NPT CONNECTOR FOR 3/4\" LOC-LINE MODULAR HOSE $1.49 2 $2.98
HYDOR KORALIA EVOLUTION 1400 $57.99 1 $57.99 Your probably going to want 2 of these
3/4â ABS BULKHEAD THREAD X THREAD $4.49 2 $8.98
1 1/2â ABS BULKHEAD THREAD X THREAD $6.29 1 $6.29
DANNER MAG-DRIVE SUPREME 3 - 350 GPH WATER PUMP $64.99 1 $64.99 With only one 1.5\" drain you definitely want to go lower flow through the sump. But I think the mag 5 would be a better choice
REEF FANATIC LEVEL CONTROLLER (AUTO TOP OFF) $99.99 1 $99.99With the RKL3 you get switch ports that you can wire float switches too that will do exactly what this thing is doing
REEF OCTOPUS 8\" PINWHEEL IN SUMP SKIMMER OCT NWB200 $279.99 1 $279.99 Better and may do the job but I like the Octopus Extreme SX 200 or even better the Octopus SRO XP2000. OR to make it even more confusing you can go with the model that is only part cone but has the better pump of the XP line (bubbleblaster). For this you go to www.goreef.com which is Canadian and will give you free shipping on your skimmer...so its probably a better deal. I would get the super reef 2000 for a good fit....or if you would like to overkill it a litte you can also go bigger

http://www.goreef.com/Super-Reef-Octopus-2000-Internal-Protein-Skimmer-180-Gallons.html

48â X 8 BULB SUNLIGHT SUPPLY TEK LIGHT T5 FIXTURE $373.99 1 $373.99
54W - 48IN ATI PURPLE PLUS T5 HO FLUORESCENT BULB $20.99 1 $20.99
54W - 48IN 12000K ATI AQUABLUE SPECIAL T5 HO FLUORESCENT BULB $21.99 3 $65.97
54W - 48IN ATI BLUE PLUS T5 HO FLUORESCENT BULB $20.99 2 $41.98
I like the KZ revolutions bulb for the white bulb..but since BRS doesnt have it the aqublue+ will due. I would go 2 aqublue 12k, 5xblue+ and 1 purple....but that is what I like
RED SEA REEF FOUNDATION PRO MULTI TEST KIT (CA, KH, MG) $49.99 1 $49.99 good choice I was going to suggest this...just get a cheap NO3 test somewhere and your set
REEFKEEPER LITE L3 PLUS - DIGITAL AQUATICS $269.99 1 $269.99
REFRACTOMETER FOR READING SALINITY W/ FREE CALIBRATION FLUID $39.99 1 $39.99
FINNEX 300W SUBMERSIBLE DIGITAL HEATER $24.95 1 $24.95
FINNEX 200W SUBMERSIBLE DIGITAL HEATER $22.95 1 $22.95
That all looks fine
Subtotal $1,699.96
Discount $-37.24
Rewards Redemption $0.00
Shipping & Handling (UPS - Retail Orders Over $175 Ship FREE - Canada Standard) $218.52
Tax $240.02
Grand Total $2,121.26

The shipping is kinda rough here on the big items...you may save more by ordering things like the tek light from www.goreef.com

Blob-79 · Sep 20, 2011

theres group buys going on on aquarium pros all the time. going as a group buy you'll save some cash

Neopimp · Sep 20, 2011

The XP2000 is a great unit from my experience so far. You will not be sorry with it. More Money but a good fit.

Siderjan · Sep 21, 2011

Darryl_V link said:
Now we are talking...but still some a few more helpful suggestions

[quote author=Siderjan link=topic=1421.msg9667#msg9667 date=1316561150]
Here's my updated list from BRS. Doesn't include, rock, salt, and substrate as shipping for those 3 items was over $225 + I can get them locally and save more then the shipping charge is. Comments always welcome!!

75 GPD RO/DI 5 STAGE *PLUS* SYSTEM $199.99 1 $199.99Get in on a \"group buy\" its easy and happening all the time on other forums....everyone pays seperate and all orders are shipped seperate...and you get the lowest price so this would be $180
Added the filters.

DUAL INLINE TDS METER DM-1 HM DIGITAL $29.40 1 $29.40 The above unit comes with this....so not needed. Although you might want to get a couple of sets of prefitlers to last the year.
Removed

3/4\" LOC-LINE MODULAR HOSE (6 SEGMENTS) $5.40 4 $21.60 You don't really need loc line...especially if you are going lower flow through the sump...just a 45 elbow is fine
They are for my return lines. I line the way they look over PVC or ABS

3\" FLARE NOZZLE FOR 3/4\" LOC-LINE MODULAR HOSE $4.49 2 $8.98
Y FITTING FOR 3/4\" LOC-LINE MODULAR HOSE $3.99 2 $7.98
3/4\" NPT CONNECTOR FOR 3/4\" LOC-LINE MODULAR HOSE $1.49 2 $2.98
HYDOR KORALIA EVOLUTION 1400 $57.99 1 $57.99 Your probably going to want 2 of these
KORALIA MAGNUM 5 - 1,650 GPH $71.99 1 $71.99
BRS only had 1 avalible. I added the one above

3/4â ABS BULKHEAD THREAD X THREAD $4.49 2 $8.98
1 1/2â ABS BULKHEAD THREAD X THREAD $6.29 1 $6.29
DANNER MAG-DRIVE SUPREME 3 - 350 GPH WATER PUMP $64.99 1 $64.99 With only one 1.5\" drain you definitely want to go lower flow through the sump. But I think the mag 5 would be a better choice
Changed
REEF FANATIC LEVEL CONTROLLER (AUTO TOP OFF) $99.99 1 $99.99With the RKL3 you get switch ports that you can wire float switches too that will do exactly what this thing is doing
Can you send me some links for these please?

REEF OCTOPUS 8\" PINWHEEL IN SUMP SKIMMER OCT NWB200 $279.99 1 $279.99 Better and may do the job but I like the Octopus Extreme SX 200 or even better the Octopus SRO XP2000. OR to make it even more confusing you can go with the model that is only part cone but has the better pump of the XP line (bubbleblaster). For this you go to www.goreef.com which is Canadian and will give you free shipping on your skimmer...so its probably a better deal. I would get the super reef 2000 for a good fit....or if you would like to overkill it a litte you can also go bigger
Changed it to the SRO XP200I
http://www.goreef.com/Super-Reef-Octopus-2000-Internal-Protein-Skimmer-180-Gallons.html

48â X 8 BULB SUNLIGHT SUPPLY TEK LIGHT T5 FIXTURE $373.99 1 $373.99
54W - 48IN ATI PURPLE PLUS T5 HO FLUORESCENT BULB $20.99 1 $20.99
54W - 48IN 12000K ATI AQUABLUE SPECIAL T5 HO FLUORESCENT BULB $21.99 3 $65.97
54W - 48IN ATI BLUE PLUS T5 HO FLUORESCENT BULB $20.99 2 $41.98
I like the KZ revolutions bulb for the white bulb..but since BRS doesnt have it the aqublue+ will due. I would go 2 aqublue 12k, 5xblue+ and 1 purple....but that is what I like
Changed the configs.

RED SEA REEF FOUNDATION PRO MULTI TEST KIT (CA, KH, MG) $49.99 1 $49.99 good choice I was going to suggest this...just get a cheap NO3 test somewhere and your set
REEFKEEPER LITE L3 PLUS - DIGITAL AQUATICS $269.99 1 $269.99
REFRACTOMETER FOR READING SALINITY W/ FREE CALIBRATION FLUID $39.99 1 $39.99
FINNEX 300W SUBMERSIBLE DIGITAL HEATER $24.95 1 $24.95
FINNEX 200W SUBMERSIBLE DIGITAL HEATER $22.95 1 $22.95
That all looks fine
Subtotal $1,699.96
Discount $-37.24
Rewards Redemption $0.00
Shipping & Handling (UPS - Retail Orders Over $175 Ship FREE - Canada Standard) $218.52
Tax $240.02
Grand Total $2,121.26

The shipping is kinda rough here on the big items...you may save more by ordering things like the tek light from www.goreef.com
[/quote]

Here's what I came up with total wise.
BRS everything ordered: $2412.14
BRS with everything BUT lights: $1740.16
BRS with everything BUT lights and skimmer: $1199.51

GR with both lights and skimmer: $1112.94
GR just lights: $677.94
GR just skimmer: $434.99

BRS is $99.69 more for everything. IF I can get I can get in on a group buy I might be able to save that

Blob-97: I checked out AP, and I can't figure their site out. Looks like mostly ads. Where are the forums?

Neopimp: Thanks for the info. I think I'll spend the extra.

It's time to start saving pennies. If you know anyone that needs a cheap locksmith, or windows & doors installed...hook me up!! LOL!! Saving $50 a week will put me almost a year til I get this tank wet.

phi delt reefer · Sep 21, 2011

magnum is a big ass pump - may want to check Go Reef to see if they have the Koralia 1400's at an attractive price. For a 120 gallon you will need more than 2 if you want SPS. Its very linear flow so you probably wont get flow all over the tank. I ran two of the 1100's plus two 425s in a 40 gallon tank and it wasnt moving water everywhere. Just kept kicking up sand, lol.

I wouldnt buy that light new. Just wait a bit. You might find a used one up for sale. It will take a few months for you to get everything set up so you might as well hold off. The shipping from GOREEF is free for such an expensive item anyways so you can always get it later if nothing pans out.

i would check for some used options on the skimmer first - lots of tank tear downs happen now due to summer neglect. Aquariumpros.ca is a weird site to get around and it takes a lot of effort to get signed up but i can keep an eye out for you if needed (for skimmer and lights)

dont bother with the reefkeeper. Its a piece of shit - slow updates, bad firmware - shit support, the list goes on. I have one and one day i will get rid of it when i have some money to get the neptune jr. I would get the neptune jr. and an extra 8 slot power bar. Teebone has one so get in contact with him if you need some hands on experience. Neptune jr is like $149. Doesn't come with a screen but if you have an iphone than you control it with that (or your pc). Might work with android based phones as well. You can hook up ato float switches via an expansion module on the neptune unit as well. Zack actually set this up on his unit - very easy to do.

mag drive pumps are hit or miss. some are loud others arent. They also put out loads of heat. Eheim return pumps are the best but you pay for it. Another cheap alternative is the Laguna pond pumps. max flo 1500 series is used as the base pump for ATB/Red Dragon return pumps.Tons of flow (1500gph at 0 head) - you can tee it off or run you reactors off it. You may want to pick up a BRS Dual reactor to run carbon and gfo if you are ordering from BRS. If this is going in your living room you want it to be quiet.

jager heaters have a solid reputation in the reef world. I know some guys run the finnex titanium ones - havent seen many run their glass heaters so i cant comment on their reliability - BUT I would go with a tried and tested unit like the jagers ( i think the price is very similar)

Incredible Aquarium (IA) in London has a sale on Carib Sea Special Grade sea floor sand. This is the sand Darryl recommends for it doesnt blow around much and is sand sifter safe.

Darryl_V · Sep 21, 2011

Good info Vince......

I don't have any experience with the various controllers so you may be right about the Reef keeper stuff. As for the pumps.....do we know what kind of Reef Barry has envisioned? SPS, LPS, Softie or some type of mix? This could change the flow requirements quite a bit.

The mag 5 was a pump I ran for years on a 90g and my buddy bought it off me and he now runs it on a 120g for a few more years.......can't recall it being too loud. The heat is only a matter of watts used since these are completely submersed pumps. Any brand of the same wattage will add the same amount of heat to the tank.

I agree that waiting for a light and skimmer to come up in the classifieds is a good idea if Barry has time to wait. If a good deal pops up great....and if not he can always order new later.

Ya..the carib sea reef floor special grade is great for an SSB....but not too deep

What do you think about my bulb recommendation Vince? That was 2xaquablue+ 5xblue+ and 1xpurple.....

phi delt reefer · Sep 21, 2011

pretty much same bulb setup i am running.

i run 5 blue+
1 ge 6500k (brings out greens and yellow - full spectrum "sun" bulb)
1 purple plus
1 aquablue special

i am pulling the ge6500k out and the aquablue special and putting in two uvl superactinics. I have too much light i think - considering how shallow my tank is so the actinics should get me some nice pop. Definitely not VHOlevel but it should be better than nothing. I would run two aquablue's if I was burning the shit out of everything in my tank.

Siderjan · Sep 23, 2011

Wow. I thought I answered this one, but I must have done it in my head after I read it.

Thanks for the info guys. Since I am fairly new at this any advice is better then doing it the way I have been...half-@$$, and you're advice has been just what I needed, and I like how when I get info it's not like on other forums were one says the other is wrong, but ask what each other thinks!! That's the best!!

I would like to have a mixture of everything if that is possible. (SPS, LSP, and Softies) Honestly, I'm scared $h!tless of SPS corals, but I think with the advice here and doing things right in the tank, everything should be good. I'm thinking on staying with the fish I have now and adding a Blackcapped Basset if it ever comes in. I like fish, but I like corals more. If I my kids didn't like the fish so much I'd get rid of them and just have corals. Is it possible to have just a coral tank only without fish?

Thanks again!

Siderjan · Oct 9, 2011

Kim was cleaning the house yesterday so that means stay out of her way and the house. I decided to clean the new tank up and see how bad it was scratched. There are a couple of really big scratches on the left side. but that's ok because that side is going up against the wall.

Left Side;

Front;

Right Side;

Here's a pic of the biggest scratch;

You'll notice I took the "covers" off the over flow as I'm making new ones and adding one to the other side. I brought home the 1/4" black acrylic sheets yesterday. 24"x24". Ended up costing me $125. Here's where I'm cutting the slits. Slits will be 3/16" wide and 3/8" apart and 1 1/4" long. Once I get them cut I'll bend them in half 90 degrees and cut them to the length I want.

I have the holes drilled, and tomorrow I'll take them to work and use the cut out tool to make the slits. I originally was going to make them from the top down to my mark, but decided to leave a 1/4" on the top.

My next decision is to block this overflow over completely and drill 2 in the back of the glass, or use this one and add another one on the right side of the tank.

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