HOB Reef?

[KJones90s]

Curious, have any of you guys ran a reef aquarium with a hob filter?
Would you consider the tank successful?
If not what made you decide to upgrade to a better filtration system?

 

[R.Weller]

When we started our reef, we converted from freshwater using a 60gal non-drilled. We used a cannister filter & HOB skimmer. We had limited success with two anenome, 4 - 6 fish & a few different polys, but nitrates were out of control regardless of water changes & filter pad / media changes. Nothing else would grow (besides algae). We started doing research & bolted on a sump but eventually upgraded with a design that showcases the reef & hides the equipment that is supporting it.

It was successful in that we used it as a learning opportunity to get to where we are today.