Hi all,
I have an IM Fusion 14 Peninsula that is just starting out (check out my build thread!) and I need some input on which powerhead to choose. The goal is an anemone tank, so that is a major consideration. I don't currently have an Apex but I plan on adding one at some point, so controllability would be nice.
Vortech MP10
While very expensive ($300, double the cost of the other two), everyone seems to love these pumps. There are third party anemone guards readily available. The WXM module has been discontinued which doesn't bode well for Apex compatibility going forward, although I could use their Mobius app. The ability to replace the westside so easily for cleaning and the fact that the wires are not in the tank is also great.
AI Nero 3
At $150, it's half the price of the MP10. It's sleek and low profile and has advanced controllability (via the MyAI app) baked into the price. There are anemone guards available. However, it is not compatible with the Apex and I don't anticipate it ever being so. I already have the AI Prime HD light over my tank, so at least I'll be sticking in a family.
Tunze 6040
Also cheap at $150. I think it seems more maneuverable in the tank than the other two, which are a lot more parallel to the glass. Comes with a basic manual controller, but is Apex ready via a simple cable. But I can't seem to find any anemone guards and also the propeller is exposed. This is a major red flag.
So in summary:
I have an IM Fusion 14 Peninsula that is just starting out (check out my build thread!) and I need some input on which powerhead to choose. The goal is an anemone tank, so that is a major consideration. I don't currently have an Apex but I plan on adding one at some point, so controllability would be nice.
Vortech MP10
While very expensive ($300, double the cost of the other two), everyone seems to love these pumps. There are third party anemone guards readily available. The WXM module has been discontinued which doesn't bode well for Apex compatibility going forward, although I could use their Mobius app. The ability to replace the westside so easily for cleaning and the fact that the wires are not in the tank is also great.
AI Nero 3
At $150, it's half the price of the MP10. It's sleek and low profile and has advanced controllability (via the MyAI app) baked into the price. There are anemone guards available. However, it is not compatible with the Apex and I don't anticipate it ever being so. I already have the AI Prime HD light over my tank, so at least I'll be sticking in a family.
Tunze 6040
Also cheap at $150. I think it seems more maneuverable in the tank than the other two, which are a lot more parallel to the glass. Comes with a basic manual controller, but is Apex ready via a simple cable. But I can't seem to find any anemone guards and also the propeller is exposed. This is a major red flag.
So in summary:
- MP10 is expensive and the only major benefits that I value are the dry/wet side design and the positive reviews from so many reefers.
- AI Nero 3 looks good from a price and anemone safety perspective, but can't be controlled by the Apex (although has controllability of it's own)
- Tunze 6040 is an anemone death trap but can be hooked up with an Apex.