Nano tank question--which one?

[goldenboy]

I know this question has been asked a million times on this board. I've been researching this for quite some time and have read enough opinions to make one's head spin. I am just getting back into this hobby after many years and looking for an all-in-one nano tank that will need very few modifications.

I've pretty much narrowed my choices down to the CAD Pro series 39G, the Finnex 30g M tank and the Current Solana 34g.

The Current looks like a nice, basic system that is in a lower price point. Both of my LFS liked and recommended it. The CAD and Finnex look like top of the line and are definitely priced that way.

Does the increased quality justify the higher price tag? Any advice would be appreciated, I just want to be sure I make a decision I'm happy with.

thanks

SG

[Reef-Ski]

goldenboy- First off

[welcome]

[Reef-Ski]

I have the Finnex 30 Gallon M tank and I can tell you that I am very impressed with the quality. For the money I would go with the M tank and choose a different stand. Also I would highly recommend a different skimmer. As with most of the all in one tanks the skimmers are sub par in my opinion. Look for something that is going to perform better like a Tunze Nano DOC 9002, or the Aqua C Remora.

As for my Finnex the tank runs very quiet, and is well made. One thing I really liked about the Finnex was the Refugium that is incorperated in the back filtration chamber. Also the back chamber is well thought out, you can run different filter media like Chemi-Pure or Phosban with out having to mod anything.

The one down fall as I mentioned is the stand. I have heard that it is very flimsy. I decided to make my own.

I can't speak for your other two choices, but for the money the other two would cost you could build a very nice Finnex with an updated skimmer.

Below is a photo of my setup. I am running the Tunze skimmer and Orbit Pro HQI/T5 light fixture.

Good luck with your decision.

http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc186/saltyreeftank/finnexfulltankshot.jpg

[burtbollinger]

+1 Reef-ski....he's exaclty right.

Finnex and CADLights both good....with reservations....

basically if you want rounded glass, get CAD, if you like the classic look, go Finnex.

these tanks are worth the money.

If I were you, I'd get the finnex with the 150w MH and an aqua c remora....good luck and welcome.

[goldenboy]

Thanks for the replies. So, the 150wMH will be sufficient for the Finnex? Would it be overkill to go the 250wMH?

[Reef-Ski]

I would think that a 250 watt MH light fixture would be overkill.

What do you plan to keep for corals?

[goldenboy]

being a newbie, i should probably start with some hardy soft corals. I would eventually like to move into more SPS type stuff.

[Reef-Ski]

If it were me I would go with a 150 watt Metal Halide fixture.

With that you should be able to keep most corals / clams / Anemones.

When it comes time to stock your system make sure to research everything as you are doing now. Patience is the key to keeping a successful marine environment.

Good luck and enjoy whatever tank you decide to buy :)

[Dustin1231]

what about the Current Solana 34g?