Tank Selection Help

Discussion in 'New To The Hobby' started by MattCarm, Dec 1, 2009.

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  1. oceanparadise1

    oceanparadise1 Fire Squid

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    4x250 mh would be SICK on that tank for an all SPS tank....also if he builds a custom stand it will sit higher and be fine.


    But i agree the way that tank looks i dont like it WAY to low, it needs a much high stand
     
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  3. GuitarMan89

    GuitarMan89 Giant Squid

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    I agree with Oceans here, just build a taller stand, I like the look of shallower tanks.
     
  4. MattCarm

    MattCarm Plankton

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    Alright, good advice. If I were to get two 48" T5 fixtures or MH, what would be the cheapest, but best quality route? How many watts do i need?

    Also, how hard are good overflows/sumps to build.
     
  5. oceanparadise1

    oceanparadise1 Fire Squid

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    You would buy an over flow and sumps are very easy. I would look at getting a retro fit for either mh or t5 if you ahve a canopy if not your going to have to buy two fixtures
     
  6. PackLeader

    PackLeader Giant Squid

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    100% agree. Shallow tanks kick butt ;) Plus, you need less lighting for them ;) Thats actually a plus with a reef. My tank is 24" and thats a little tall for me.
     
  7. Telgar

    Telgar Snowflake Eel

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    If he wont split the system up for you, the lights will support a FOWLR tank till you get your upgraded lights... by the way, great find! like OP and Stepho siad, i'd love a tank with that foot print


    lol, looks like im late to the party, 6 more posts showed up while I was typing!
     
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  9. GoToSleep

    GoToSleep Torch Coral

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    I think it sounds like a nice find though I agree with trying to get him to shave the price a bit. I sold my 125g for $100 last spring.

    Regarding the tank I'm envious that you have the space and opportunity to pick up an 8' foot. That's an awesome length for tangs. The shallow depth has some advantages that have already been nicely covere re. being cheaper to light. An added benefit is that fewer watts of lights means less difficulty keeping this thing cool.

    I initially thoght that the 21" width was a little narrow and would limit your aquascaping options but since the tank is only 18" deep you shouldn't face the same challenges that I did trying to fit a 36" tall pile of rock between the front and back walls of your tank.

    Please let us know how it turns out and we'll be looking for a build thread with lots of pics.