Best protein skimmer for $170

Discussion in 'Protein Skimmers' started by Unaidedsoul, Jun 7, 2010.

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  1. Unaidedsoul

    Unaidedsoul Astrea Snail

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    So my budget for my skimmer is $170, which do you think is the best bang for my buck? Name/Model please! It will be a in-sump skimmer.

    Other thoughts: I was thinking maybe a Reef Octopus 4 (100 Gallon)

    Thanks in Advance everyone!
    :thumb_up:
     
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  3. Jim522

    Jim522 Purple Spiny Lobster

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    I got a Bubble Magus NAC6 for about $160 shipped. I couldn't be happier with it.
     
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  4. Powerman

    Powerman Giant Squid

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    how big is your system? What do you have in it? What do you want to keep?
     
  5. banthonyb71

    banthonyb71 Millepora

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    Reef Octupus is a good choice as long as you get the right model.
     
  6. Unaidedsoul

    Unaidedsoul Astrea Snail

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    I don't have a system yet, but it is going to be a 20g L with a 20g or 15g sump. It is going to be a reef tank.

    Thanks!
     
  7. Powerman

    Powerman Giant Squid

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    You don't really want to go bigger than 2x your system. If you want to upgrade later, then get another skimmer. Not much will span a big range.

    Look at SWC 120 cone. The Bubble Magus are indeed a good bang for buck. The one that was suggested... NAC6. The SWC will be a bit better build quality. Those are small enough for you but will perform well. Most others in that size range are HOBs. There are cheaper ones, but you get what you pay for.
     
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  9. Unaidedsoul

    Unaidedsoul Astrea Snail

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    I was able to find a bubble magus nac6a for $130 is that a good skimmer?
    Refer to link below:
    Bubble-Magus BM-NAC6

    Furthermore, I could not find the swc 120 cone. I found the swc 120 cone Xtreme, but that was $220
     
  10. Jim522

    Jim522 Purple Spiny Lobster

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    It's a great skimmer and that's an awesome price. I have the same exact one on my 20Dt w/ 20sump/fuge. It really pulls some nasty skimmate and is dead silent. I think you would be happy with it.
     
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  11. Powerman

    Powerman Giant Squid

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    Look at the Vertex in-80. About the best bang for buck around.

    The SWC 120 cone is more... thought it was a bit less. For what you are trying to do, consider it the best. Very good skimmer for what you want.
     
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  12. Kelley11

    Kelley11 Peppermint Shrimp

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    I have been really happy with the Aeroforce from CPR. It skims like crazy and has a side chamber that is useful for things such as heater, titanium probe, thermometer, and I think I even have my PH sensor in there.

    CPR AeroForce Recirculating Protein Skimmer

    Good luck!
     
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