Tank to Sump ratios

So if you don't like CPR, then what do you like in the commercial arena for a tank this size? Keep in mind I'm not a DIY kind of guy.

 

Do you have room for an under the tank sump?

 

Yes, I should have plenty of room. The CPR CY192 is a in cabinet sump.

 

Instead of just saying buy this, lets discuss filtration. It's more entertaining.
1st things first. Take all I say with a grain of salt. I've had marine tanks on and off since the early 80s. I've made almost every mistake known. I've also done some good things and like to experiment. Case in point, I hand built my first skimmer in 81 based on an article I read. It was made out of a lift tube, 1/2 a shampoo bottle and and air stone. I've seen a lot of changes over the years. I've finally made the move from Aggressive Show Tanks, to FOWLER to reef. I'm still a baby vs. some of the gang here re reefs, but I'm learning.

The CPR is a basic wet/dry with a built in protein skimmer. Don't get me wrong. That can be quite effective. My 55 hospital, and my 210 are operating on that basis. (The wet dry on the 210 days are numbered.) My 72 has a Fluval 404 for mechanical filtration. The 55 and the 72 even have Rainbow Lifeguard 600 and 900 fluidized beds running. That is what I get for doing this for years. the question is, is that really what you want? My biggest concern is that you have no flexibility in skimmer selection and it is one of the most important parts of your filtration system. Further, there isn't room for a refug in it. With LR in the tank, there isn't a need for big biologic filtration in the sump.

IMO, a sump that allows you to grow macro algae, have your pick of a high capacity skimmer and ideally support a DSB is a better choice and more in lines with current reef keeping thoughts.

Of course, you can pick up a CPR for $150. That is a lot of bang for the buck, but you may be looking to flip it out after a while.

OK, where are the other boys and girls? Some one else chime in with counter thoughts.

 

A under tanh sump is not realy a diy thing you realy only looking for a tank that will hold water a return pump and a skimmer a 30 gal long tank for a sump will hold a very large skimmer and has little chance of overflowing.
For that mater a rubber maid tote will do the same thing