Getting Back In!

[MICHIGANRV]

Hello fellow reefers
After an extended period (20 years) out of the saltwater side of the hobby I'm getting back in. As you know a lot has changed and I need some advice on equipment choices. I have narrowed down the size of tank (75-100g) and I want a sump, but that is as far as I can go without some help. I think I have narrowed down tank manufacturer to Eshopps Mariner, ProStar Rimless V2, or Innovative Marine INT or EXT. Does one of these brands have a leg up as far as quality, customer service, bang for your buck? Also, do I want an internal or external overflow (pros vs cons)? Thanks in advance for the help!

 

[TX_REEF]

Innovative Marine has a great reputation, but Eshopps is also quality in my experience. Have you considered waterbox?

 

[MICHIGANRV]

I have looked at Waterbox. Here is just a couple of things that didn’t compare to Eshopp and IM. 1. Thickness of glass for comparable size tank. Waterbox was thinner. 2. Stand construction. Waterbox uses a marine grade OSB. Eshopp uses marine grade plywood, and IM uses aluminum. With all that said I don’t really know if it makes a huge difference. All I am really concerned about is that the tank won’t leak or suffer a failure and the stand doesn’t swell up if it gets a little wet. I would love to hear from others their experience with Waterbox.

 

[RWinfrey]

Hi ,
Bob here from Eshopps. One of the features that’s missed on our tanks . We use standard 1 inch and 3/4 inch plumbing so our system is easily upgraded. You aren’t stuck altering plumbing many other companies plumbing is metric .

 

[MICHIGANRV]

Hi ,
Bob here from Eshopps. One of the features that’s missed on our tanks . We use standard 1 inch and 3/4 inch plumbing so our system is easily upgraded. You aren’t stuck altering plumbing many other companies plumbing is metric .

Thank you for responding! I’m certain I’m going with the Eshopps tank, but one thing that I was really looking for in a sump is the option for a skimmer and refugium. Is there any plans to offer the M100 with a sump that has both?

 

[countercrnt exchg]

I’m in the same boat, I’m looking at the Nyos tanks as well.

 

[RWinfrey]

So it depends on the stock your dealer can get we did update the sump on the m 100 it looks like the pictures of the m130 . Ask your dealer or we can try and work with them on your behalf.

 

[MICHIGANRV]

Great to know! Thank you!

 

[mrtian97]

I am also looking at the Eshopps M100, will the small side of the cabinet has enough space for the 5 gallon container and DOS Neptune containers (for Ca and Alk).
Does the sump fits heater, skimmer and BRS media reactor?
Thanks

 

[RWinfrey]

It depends on your choices for those things the 5 gallon and dos should fit there is enough room for our 12 gallon ato

 

[Airedale Reef]

Following along here, as I just purchased the Eshopps M100 as well. How are you liking the tank - any pros and cons from your perspective or any progression pics?