14g Biocube vs. 12g JBJ Nanocube

So, long story short, I will be moving next weekend and can't take my 75g mixed reef with me. I have started selling off all of my corals/ livestock, with the exception of a few select pieces that I want to move to a smaller tank 12g-14g until I get my new larger tank set-up (thinking a 45g cube).

Once all of that is accomplished, I want to keep the cube for my bedroom and just do a simple tank with a watchman/ pistol shrimp combo and maybe a few zoas, paly's and other low light corals.

Given that info, which would be better a JBJ nanocube or Oceanic Biocube? I have both available to me used for considerably less than new cost. Which has the better filtration and is one easier to modify if needed?

 

I like the biocube's style more, but the nanocube is a better built tank IMO/IME.

Are you going to remove the false back?

 

I wasn't planning on it. I was just going to run it as it is with standard filtration (bioballs/ cermaic rings removed) and lighting.

...well, at least for the time being. I am considering getting a retrofit LED kit, just so I don't have to deal with CF's.

Edit: Almost forgot-I would upgrade the pump too and probably throw a hydor flo on the output, for a little more random flow.

 

Both are good tanks, I would spend time and see how much retrofit LED kits cost for both, that might help make your decision easier.

 

It's funny you mention that- I just looked at Rapid LED and they have one for the 14g biocube for $120. They unfortunately don't have one listed for the 12g Nanocube, but I shot them an email asking if they had an option for it.

 

That's why I mentioned it , harder to find reto kits for most nano tanks. But a lot of people make them for the biocube. But if you want you can always hit up aqua style, I think they sell NanoCube stuff.

Both are nice tanks, I've never seen a NanoCube in person but I'd take Cheryl's word, the BioCube could use better build quality IMO.

 

Gotcha. Any thoughts on which has better stock filtration? I figure i will probably just use simple water changes, rather than installing a skimmer, but I have the worst time with GHA in my tanks. I ran a phosban reactor on my 75 which helped alot, but with this one, I don't think I'll have the room.

 

It all depends on what tank you get, I can help mod the BioCube but no clue on the NanoCube.

For the time being check out inTank, this guy sells many different filter mods and pump upgrades for all different types of Nanos. Also all of his stuff is made in WI, USA!

http://shop.mediabaskets.com/main.sc

 

Steve's LED's offers an LED retrofit for the JBJ cube. I'm looking at getting it but haven't been able to yet. I haven't found anything negative on it. I have a 12 gallon JBJ and I put an InTank media basket in and I like the setup better than stock, especially changing out the filter floss vs cleaning those nasty dirty sponges.

 

JBJ makes hoods for nanos but the LED are pretty pricey. A DIY is a much better options

Posting this link so you can take a look at options.

Nano Cube Replacement Hoods