Setting up a new reef tank

[Rory's Reef]

I've decided to start a second reef tank. This mainly came about from an obsession along with wanting to do things differently from how I set up my first tank. I've got just about all of the equipment picked out that I would like for my new set up, however, I wanted to share and ask for anyones opinions and experience with equipment. Since this will be quite the investment, I want to do things right the second time around.

Tank:
Red Sea Reefer 250 (considered the 350, but due to space and cost I landed on the 250)

Lighting:
Always a topic for debate and an area where I would like to hear peoples opinions. I've mostly decided on a Nanobox Dual T5/Quad LED Hybrid. I really do enjoy the LED controllability and like the lower heat emitted and lower electricity use, but I cannot ignore the success of T5's either. (I would also like something that can be connected to an apex controller)

Controller:
Apex Neptune System (Just seems to be the one to get from what I read)

Skimmer:
This has been an area of difficulty for me. Originally I was thinking along the lines of a Reef Octopus Classic, but more recently I've found myself looking at the DelTech SC1351. It's a bit pricey, but like I said I want to do this right and I think springing for a nice skimmer might save money in the long run. Ideally, I'd like a quite skimmer that obviously skims well and lasts a while . Please share any suggestions.

Powerhead/Pumps:
(2) VorTech MP10WQD (Would also get the Apex WXM module)

Return Pump:
Syncra Silent 3.0 (this seemed like a good reliable pump for a good price)

I'm also seriously considering replacing the filter socks with a Theiling Roller Mat, so if anyone has any experience with these let me know what you think and whether or not they are worth it.

Also, this would be an SPS dominant tank, although I'm sure a few softies and LPS will make their way in. :)

Thanks for any and all help

 

[Nick92515]

Just remember the added yearly cost of t5 bulbs. Over time the bulbs and electric could buy a better led. They do grow great corals, but just something to consider.

 

[Napa Reefer]

Following...

 

[Rory's Reef]

Just remember the added yearly cost of t5 bulbs. Over time the bulbs and electric could buy a better led. They do grow great corals, but just something to consider.

Thanks for the tip. Do you think that 2 T5's would make a significant cost difference?

 

[Rory's Reef]

Also, I've decided to go with the Varios-2 as a return pump. I want that ability to be able to adjust it and I like that I can integrate with the Apex. Plus I think it's a good price.

It would be great if anyone could provide some more feedback :)

 

[KingBlingTX]

I would suggest you consider the Jebao products for the skimmer (Coral Box d500), powerheads, and return pump. I have mine all connected to an Apex controller and have been nothing but pleased with the performance. I initially set up my tank with the Syncra Silent 3.0, but i kept hearing a hum that was annoying. I picked up the Jebao Jecod DC pump and it is dead silent. Normally, I am always the first person to spend more money for a premium/high quality product. I can say that there really doesn't seem to be a sacrifice in quality or performance with these products.

 

[tomtom2245]

I have had two different Reef Octopus skimmers and have loved both of them. Never had any problems with the pumps and they always produced some good skimmate. I built my own LED fixture so I was able to get exactly what I wanted in an LED light that way. Takes a little know-how and willingness to do some wiring but pays off in the end. With that said, I have also used T5s and loved them as well. As for return pumps, I've used Rio's and a Mag-9 and had good luck with both. That is just my experience though. Sounds like you are off to a good start.

 

[tj w]

Sounds like a good plan to me on setting up the tank. I haven't tried the roller mat myself but they do seem like they would work well. Ill be following as well. Good luck.