aquamaxx vs octopus

Discussion in 'Protein Skimmers' started by khern11, Jul 24, 2011.

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  1. khern11

    khern11 Plankton

    Joined:
    Jul 24, 2011
    Messages:
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    Hey im relatively new to saltwater tanks and I need your input on a skimmer for a 20 gallon tall. I have done a fair amount of research on skimmers but I'm stuck between two, the Octopus bh 100f and the aquamaxx HOB skimmers. I have read that the aquamaxx is quiet and reliable with a very adequate sicce pump, but there are some tuning issues as far as maintaining water level and some cases of microbubbles. I have read that the octopus is louder but also requires some tuning as well as microbubbles.

    Which one do you think is better? If neither, then which do you suggest? Please help I am ready to order one and I am open to any suggestions.

    This is my current set up:
    [​IMG]

    i have an Aquaclear 20 gallon powerfilter. I also have an aquaclear 110 gallon that i plan on turning into a mini fuge in the next week, as well as a hydor koralia nano 425 gph powerhead ready to go into the tank.
     
    khern11, Jul 24, 2011
    khern11, Jul 24, 2011
    #1

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  2. khern11

    khern11 Plankton

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    anyone?
     
    khern11, Jul 25, 2011
    khern11, Jul 25, 2011
    #2
  3. doylef4i

    doylef4i Bubble Tip Anemone

    Joined:
    Jan 11, 2010
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    Location:
    Florida
    I would have to say octo.I've never used an aquamaxx but love my octopus.I don't think you could go wrong with it.
     
    doylef4i, Jul 25, 2011
    doylef4i, Jul 25, 2011
    #3
  4. LCP136

    LCP136 Sailfin Tang

    Joined:
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    I got an octopus a couple weeks ago for my 90 and the thing is unbelievable. I would go with the octopus.
     
    LCP136, Jul 25, 2011
    LCP136, Jul 25, 2011
    #4
  5. gcarroll

    gcarroll Zoanthid

    Joined:
    Sep 30, 2010
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    Location:
    Anaheim Hills, CA
    Aquamaxx without a second thought. Very clean design with a high qualityu Italian made Sicce pump.
     
    gcarroll, Aug 4, 2011
    gcarroll, Aug 4, 2011
    #5
  6. mithelmit

    mithelmit Astrea Snail

    Joined:
    Jan 24, 2011
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    Location:
    Schaumburg, IL
    I have an Eshopps 75 on my 20 gallon tall. I keep it in my sump and have baffles so I have no issues with microbubbles. I do think it can be loud at times but does a great job and has a reliable pump on it.

    I have heard great things about both of the brands you have mentioned as well. My thought is no matter what you choose there will be positives and negatives.

    Are you looking to use a sump or are you going to go the HOB route?
     
    mithelmit, Aug 4, 2011
    mithelmit, Aug 4, 2011
    #6