Hi,
I've been a lurker here and joined to get your opinion on some supplies I am going to need for a new (used) 120G I will soon be purchasing. The dimensions are 2' wide by 2' high by 4' long. It is drilled with a corner overflow and tt comes with a custom built stand. Also included is a 760W light fixture (2 - 250W DE MH, 4 - 65W CF, and 6 Blue LEDs). I am getting all this for $500 and the tank/lights have been used for one year and everything looks to be in good condition. All lights are new (Hamilton MH bulbs) and have been used ~ 2 months.
That being said I need to plan on getting a sump/refugium, protein skimmer, substrate, live rock, heater, return pump, and basically replumbing the sucker. That being said I would like some input.
Protein Skimmer - I am leaning toward either an ASM or Octopus. Definitely want the model that will handle the 120G (some skimmers are rated to be able to handle a volume they really can't).
Sump/Refugium - I'd like to do a combo unit or at the very least have these consolidate in the stand below. Any nice premade units out there or should I try to custom make one? I plan on having a couple of mandarins so the refugium is important to me.
Live Rock - Heard nothing but good things about Tampa Bay...anymore suggestions?
Heaters - I am all ears. I have a Rena currently. It has been solid.
Substrate - I like white sand...is live sand worth it?
Return Pump - I'd like to get enough flow from the return for my entire tank, but I am assuming I will probably have to go with some Koralia somewhere in my tank...let me know.
Also, any good ideas for plumbing would be helpful. Ideal locations for cutoffs and the like. Diagrams are always welcome.
Please any and all suggestions are welcome. Also, the best bang for the buck is also appreciated. I know I am asking alot, but I figured this was the best place to ask since you guys seem so nice.
BTW I am getting the back of the tank tinted!! :sfish:
Thanks so much,
BT
I've been a lurker here and joined to get your opinion on some supplies I am going to need for a new (used) 120G I will soon be purchasing. The dimensions are 2' wide by 2' high by 4' long. It is drilled with a corner overflow and tt comes with a custom built stand. Also included is a 760W light fixture (2 - 250W DE MH, 4 - 65W CF, and 6 Blue LEDs). I am getting all this for $500 and the tank/lights have been used for one year and everything looks to be in good condition. All lights are new (Hamilton MH bulbs) and have been used ~ 2 months.
That being said I need to plan on getting a sump/refugium, protein skimmer, substrate, live rock, heater, return pump, and basically replumbing the sucker. That being said I would like some input.
Protein Skimmer - I am leaning toward either an ASM or Octopus. Definitely want the model that will handle the 120G (some skimmers are rated to be able to handle a volume they really can't).
Sump/Refugium - I'd like to do a combo unit or at the very least have these consolidate in the stand below. Any nice premade units out there or should I try to custom make one? I plan on having a couple of mandarins so the refugium is important to me.
Live Rock - Heard nothing but good things about Tampa Bay...anymore suggestions?
Heaters - I am all ears. I have a Rena currently. It has been solid.
Substrate - I like white sand...is live sand worth it?
Return Pump - I'd like to get enough flow from the return for my entire tank, but I am assuming I will probably have to go with some Koralia somewhere in my tank...let me know.
Also, any good ideas for plumbing would be helpful. Ideal locations for cutoffs and the like. Diagrams are always welcome.
Please any and all suggestions are welcome. Also, the best bang for the buck is also appreciated. I know I am asking alot, but I figured this was the best place to ask since you guys seem so nice.
BTW I am getting the back of the tank tinted!! :sfish:
Thanks so much,
BT