I need some input.

I have a 100g custom tank currently set up for fresh water, but I am in the process of converting it over to saltwater. My brother has a 75g tank and operates a Rena Xp3 filter and hasn't had any issues. So I was on Ebay and found a really good deal on a new Xp4 rated for a 265g tank. I thinking this will be enough filtration but as far as a protein skimmer I'm not sure. I have read that it is really a good idea to purchase one. Any thoughts and recommendations on a brand/type would be helpful.

 

:Look through this thread: http://www.3reef.com/forums/protein-skimmers/show-your-skimmate-125904.html
Lots of good skimmers out there. Personally, I'd never run a tank without one, but opinions vary. Good luck with your project!

 

ive ran tanks without them but generally they have been tanks with small fish and minimal feeding.

what lures you into this hobby may i ask.. if its the fish than i would recommend a protein skimmer...

if its the sps corals than definately a protein skimmer..

if you only want a few clown fish and some soft corals then you can probably get away without one.. but i would have at least 50 lbs of live rock

 

For a smaller tank where 10 - 25% water changes aren't so costly (or so much hassle), one can do without a skimmer. On a 100g, you would have to stock fairly lightly to help limit the need for nutrient export without one. I'd recommend using it for the sake of security.

As for brands, Eshopps and Reef Octopus are two excellent units. There are others. Just keep away from SeaClone... it's a POS.

 

Agreed! With a 100g a skimmer is ideal, but can be done w/o...
Octo, Bashsea, Vertex are great...SC has some issues....Just my .02

 

SWC or bust

 

Definately this. Swc was the best low end price range skimmer I've used. Beat my AquaC ev-120, RO 1000INT, and several other extremely crap skimmers I've had.