Aquarium Suggestion

[Foxamus22]

Hi, I appreciate any guidance. This will be my first aquarium. I have approximately $2,000 to buy the tank. Space isn’t an issue. The Red Sea tanks caught my eye. I’d like to have clown fish and another fish if I’m able to due to size. I’ve watched a ton of YouTube videos but would appreciate any guidance. Thanks again and looking forward to starting this process.

 

[1112-425XL]

Not sure if your interested in a system with a sump or an AIO (all in one)?
Waterbox has some of each that are really nice.
I've been looking at the Waterbox MARINE X 90.3, if I decide to pull the trigger it will be #3

 

[Mr. Mojo Rising]

I think I would suggest to new folks to read a lot more than watching youtube videos, there really is a lot to learn, this will help:

The Supreme Guide To Setting Up A Saltwater Reef Aquarium

The Supreme Guide To Setting Up A Saltwater Reef Aquarium This article was sponsored by @MarineDepot at www.marinedepot.com. Introduction The marine environment is one of the most complex systems on the planet. The aquarium you are about to set up is only a tiny sliver of the vast ocean...

www.reef2reef.com

Is $2000 the total budget, or just for the tank?

 

[Foxamus22]

Just for the tank. Thanks for the link.

 

[robotrash]

You'll definitely want to decide between All in One or system with a sump as it will heavily affect your choices. Either way I'd look into Innovative Marine tanks if you're looking for turnkey (setup and go) systems. You could also look at going custom at that price if you have additional funds for plumbing/sump. Keep in mind that the tank is the cheapest part of the hobby. Lighting is killer these days, livestock is pricey and regular maintenance on large tanks can get up there as well.

 

[Cell]

Search on the forum or Google, "Red Sea tank fails" before investing in one.

 

[vetteguy53081]

Hi, I appreciate any guidance. This will be my first aquarium. I have approximately $2,000 to buy the tank. Space isn’t an issue. The Red Sea tanks caught my eye. I’d like to have clown fish and another fish if I’m able to due to size. I’ve watched a ton of YouTube videos but would appreciate any guidance. Thanks again and looking forward to starting this process.

It will depend on equipment needs based on your tank desire (fish only, fish with live rock, mixed reef, etc)
Space is another consideration as will be total weight when filled.
There is all in one with built in sump chamber, reef ready with overflows and sump and equipment required.

 

[Srfnhooker]

Innovative Marine makes a solid product. Lots of different options and sizes to choose from. I have a Nuvo 75 EXT and I love it. Came with tank, stand, sump and pre assembled piping. I got it on sale thru BRS for around $2000 (not incl tax and ship).

 

[Cell]

Just for the tank. Thanks for the link.

What you may not realize is the actual tank often ends up being cheaper than the equipment you fill with. Hopefully your $2000 tank budget is paired with a similar amount for equipment. With that kind of budget you are looking at something around a 50-75G complete system like Innovative Marine/Waterbox/Red Sea. Those are the big 3 in that space. Other options are Fiji Cube, Aquaforest, Nyos, JBJ, If you are a DIY kind of person, you can piece together your own system for less money. Or you could opt for a custom tank and go a bit smaller, but end up with a higher quality product. For acrylic, I'd look into Tenecor. For a custom, I'd reach out to @Joe Glass Cages. As mentioned earlier, you first need to research sump systems vs. All-In-One and figure out which is best for you.

 

[Foxamus22]

Thanks for all the advice. Definitely staying away from Red Sea. I was leaning toward the AIO over a sump but still trying to figure that out. Eager to get a tank but making sure I make the right choice.

 

[1112-425XL]

So much to consider, but once you make a choice everything will come together. Good luck!

 

[Foxamus22]

Thanks! All part of the fun picking out the tank

 

[0MNSH1ZLLC]

ProStar Rimless V2 90 Aquarium w/ BLACK Stand - Pro Clear Aquatic Systems

Shop The Best Saltwater Aquarium Equipment & Supplies at Saltwater Aquarium. We Carry Everything you will Need for your Fish Tank.

www.saltwateraquarium.com

I love my 230. I don't think there is a better deal out there.

 

[RedoubtReef]

I'd suggest looking for a good deal on a used tank. I'm also a a bigger fan of sump systems over AIO as more water volume adds to stability.

 

[FUNGI]

and ofcourse you have a 3rd choice, which some people, like me, prefer tanks running on canister filters and HOB skimmers

 

[robotrash]

I'd suggest looking for a good deal on a used tank. I'm also a a bigger fan of sump systems over AIO as more water volume adds to stability.

With this budget I'm not sure I'd recommend used tbh. There's more work than people think that goes into making sure you're not getting a potential living room water bomb and on larger tanks especially the seams can have gone through a lot, especially with moves.

I just don't think it's worth the risk unless you're doing a DIY or budget build. They could definitely get a nice turnkey system on that budget and not worry about it for many years.

 

[Foxamus22]

Appreciate all the comments. Decided on a sump. right now I’m considering Innovative Marine EXT 50 gallon complete reef or the 75 version

 

[steveschuerger]

Go larger if you can swing it. You’ll appreciate the extra space.

 

[Foxamus22]

Bigger works for me!! Happy they have the complete version too so it comes with the sump. Easier for me. I’ll post updates on. A separate thread as I get going. Going to take it slow since we just welcomed the 2nd baby to the family. Worth waiting till Black Friday? It’s 20% off right now.

 

[robotrash]

Bigger works for me!! Happy they have the complete version too so it comes with the sump. Easier for me. I’ll post updates on. A separate thread as I get going. Going to take it slow since we just welcomed the 2nd baby to the family. Worth waiting till Black Friday? It’s 20% off right now.

If I'm not mistaken their BF deals are already live (up to 50% off) so I think it's as cheap as it'll get.