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My understanding is the APS stands are aluminum framed.I’m looking to get into the hobby and find this discussion helpful. I’m also thinking of going with IM. Their stands seem to be a step up from MDF, which I’m not a big fan of.
They also have sale now. Trying to decide between the Fusion Pro 30 and 40.
What do you got? I'll investigate any option... I'll have a look at it tonight.No love to Planet Aquarium?
Why do you say glass? I was going to originally build one out of a 20l or 30, but then started looking at the acrylic sumps.Many aquarist want to build a system with a custom sump. And I understand that because with turn key systems you get what you get and you work with that. However, to me one important feature is that the sump is made of glass and not made of plastic. Something to think about as well as the tank itself.
Personal preference I guess but over time acrylic get very scratched up. Don't get me wrong, sumps get overgrow with all types of thing anyway. Its much easier to modify acrylic and that is a plus in direction. I like glass.Why do you say glass? I was going to originally build one out of a 20l or 30, but then started looking at the acrylic sumps.
My understanding is the APS stands are aluminum framed.
Medium Density Fiberboard is not a good idea especially if its not waterproof. Are the IM aluminum stands outside panels MDF? You defiantly want Marine Spec Plywood!Yes, that‘s my understanding as well and is one of the reasons I’m leaning towards an IM tank. I’m not a big fan of MDF.
Looks like the frame is, but I don't know about the doors.Medium Density Fiberboard is not a good idea especially if its not waterproof. Are the IM aluminum stands outside panels MDF? You defiantly want Marine Spec Plywood!
The doors are also aluminum.Looks like the frame is, but I don't know about the doors.
What about the stand? Says plywood.Check out fiji cube. Build quality is amazing. You do have to buy your pvc pipe separately but which means you can plumb it hoe you want it, it does come with the fittings, bulk heads, and gate valve.
Agreed! At least once a week I see someone posting an issue with their Redsea tanks.Same with Red Sea, I’ve seen so many reports of tank fails I lost count. Company blocking and erasing post, emailing people not to go public, just weird overall. Cade is also manufactured in China so I would go with SCA or Glass Cages if your in the US
Stand is very nice very good finish. Instructions are vague but if you have built anything from ikea or boxes you will be fine.What about the stand? Says plywood.
That is going to be a great build!My new build I decided to go IM 150 ext. the dimensions are different than most of the other companies outside of going custom. The stand goes together easily, but there is a tiny bit of movement when you clean the glass ( my only complaint/concern). It’s all slotted aluminum and the doors have a plastic insert. There is plenty of room to utilize control boards( ie Adaptive Reef) if you don’t feel like DIY. Tanks are relatively quiet for the most part, a little trickle here and there. If you go with the INT version, there is a coast to coast overflow on the back wall. Glass is clear also.
I went this route as I like to have an oversized sump for extra water volume and space for equipment.