Opinions on All In Ones (AIO)

[Weasel1960]

I am looking at the endless array of equipment and trying to piece together 2 tanks and components. I am interested in gathering opinions on AIO systems instead of doing a sump. I am currently thinking about a standard Aqueon 120 for my main tank and either buying 2 AIO from FIJI Cube to put inside of it or making an AIO as a DIY. the one advantage of going this route is a bigger display for the same weight as a smaller display with a sump. All pros and cons appreciated.

 

[Spare time]

So why would you have to do a smaller tank if you did a sump vs the AIO? Is it just the weight issue?


I personally will never do an AIO again if given the opportunity for a sump. It just makes life easier to deal with a sump than a compartment in an AIO. Not to say the the fiji aio is bad (in fact I am a big fan of fiji cube), I just think that sumps win every time if it is an option.

 

[Weasel1960]

So why would you have to do a smaller tank if you did a sump vs the AIO? Is it just the weight issue?


I personally will never do an AIO again if given the opportunity for a sump. It just makes life easier to deal with a sump than a compartment in an AIO. Not to say the the fiji aio is bad (in fact I am a big fan of fiji cube), I just think that sumps win every time if it is an option.

Yes weight is an early concern but considering a 75 gal display with 30 gal sump I could get a 120 display. I also want to put a 30 gal-ish on the same custom stand for sea horses pipe fish which would also have its own sump. Just considering different options.

 

[un5tab1e]

AIO's are nice I have a 60 cube with Trigger sump and a 10 gallon AIO Fiji Cube. My one advice is check measurements on anything you buy to go in the back of an AIO. I bought a MightJet desktop nano return for my Fiji today. Checked measurements from the pump manufacturer and Fiji....get the pump and it only fits without the cage over the inlet.

 

[Spare time]

Yes weight is an early concern but considering a 75 gal display with 30 gal sump I could get a 120 display. I also want to put a 30 gal-ish on the same custom stand for sea horses pipe fish which would also have its own sump. Just considering different options.

I guess then it's more of what would you rather have in terms of tank size. It sounds like you will probably have a nice setup either way so I would just ask yourself which tank gives you what you want out of s tank