I'm looking for some advice on powerheads on my new tank build. I've been out of the hobby for many years, and my previous tank was small and didn't use any powerheads, so all I know about them is what I've read on the forums.
I have a 150g (5x2x2 with 1/2" glass, center trap overflow) that I am planning on setting up as mixed reef - light to medium fish load, easier-to-keep corals. I have no plans for sps other than MAYBE throwing in a small frag or two someday and seeing what happens. I am going to use a decent amount of live rock, but I am thinking it's going to be two non-symetric islands that aren't too tall, and with decent space between them and the glass. My last tank was pretty crammed with LR, so I know to keep circulation in mind now when setting up the aquascape.
My question is - do I go with gyres or powerheads? I'm leaning towards gyres, but I'm really hoping to hear from those of you that have tried and used both, and whether you have formed a clear preference or not. I don't have the budget to drop $300+ on each pump. Just from shopping around, it looks like I could get a pair of IceCap 4k gyres and controller for about $400, so that's sort of my arbitrary - though rough - limit for now. I have no issues with cheaper options like Jebao other than the fact that I hear their magnets are relatively weak, so my 1/2" glass could be a problem there. Also, noise is a big concern of mine since this tank will sit a few feet behind the sofa where we watch TV in our living room.
Anyway, thanks in advance for any input.
I have a 150g (5x2x2 with 1/2" glass, center trap overflow) that I am planning on setting up as mixed reef - light to medium fish load, easier-to-keep corals. I have no plans for sps other than MAYBE throwing in a small frag or two someday and seeing what happens. I am going to use a decent amount of live rock, but I am thinking it's going to be two non-symetric islands that aren't too tall, and with decent space between them and the glass. My last tank was pretty crammed with LR, so I know to keep circulation in mind now when setting up the aquascape.
My question is - do I go with gyres or powerheads? I'm leaning towards gyres, but I'm really hoping to hear from those of you that have tried and used both, and whether you have formed a clear preference or not. I don't have the budget to drop $300+ on each pump. Just from shopping around, it looks like I could get a pair of IceCap 4k gyres and controller for about $400, so that's sort of my arbitrary - though rough - limit for now. I have no issues with cheaper options like Jebao other than the fact that I hear their magnets are relatively weak, so my 1/2" glass could be a problem there. Also, noise is a big concern of mine since this tank will sit a few feet behind the sofa where we watch TV in our living room.
Anyway, thanks in advance for any input.