Maestro's 57G Illuminata Build [Archive] - Reef Central Online Community

VtheMaestro

03/20/2010, 02:16 PM

Hey Reef Central. This site has been a great resource in my latest project and I'd like to share my build. I've been posting it simultaneously on a local reef forum, but i'd like to post it here as well in hopes that someone may learn from it and others may be able to assist me in it.
[I'll condense my progress so far into a few posts and continue updating as I continue... Here goes...]

1st post migrated
After years of freshwater tanks I decided to take the plunge into saltwater. I set up a 29g Biocube in December that caused me to all but neglect my once prized 90g reef-ready African cichlid tank. I disassembled my 90g, gave it to a friend, and began my search for a new saltwater tank to take its place. I decided on the 57g Oceanic Illuminata rimless aquarium. Thus begins my journey. I promise plenty of pics and posts, feel free to chime in with feedback, questions, and comments. ;)

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4052/4439500265_f05f50e4c8_b.jpg

2nd post migrated
Prospective Equipment List

Glass-Holes overflow/return kit
Aquatic Life 36" Fixture = [(2) 36" T5 HO 39W 420/460 Lamps/(1) G12 150W HID 10,000K Lamp/(4) 1W Lunar LED's]
Coralife Super Skimmer 65
Mag 7 Pump
Coralife Turbo-Twist 3x
Aqueon ProFlex Model 2 Sump
Custom Stand
Hydor Koralia Powerhead Vortech MP10es
Fluval E Series 200w Heater Hydor ETH 300w In-Line Heater

Am I missing anything?

3rd post migrated
Filling the tank with water to check the seams is an important step that I often neglect. Drilling the tank to add my overflow will void my warranty, so I had to be sure the tank was sound before it was too late.

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4060/4439500317_e26bed28dd_b.jpg

Years of observing tanks has taught me that unless its meant to be viewed from both sides, most tanks look best with a background of some sort. I opt for a black spray painted background. A couple coats of Krylon flat black yield exceptional results and ensure that the contents of the tank are the focal point.

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4029/4440277790_c4d8f46e9b_b.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2689/4439500407_131baa0faf_b.jpg

Taped up, ready to spray paint

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4070/4439500451_80db144e92_b.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4017/4439500479_d5793b2207_b.jpg

Peeling the tape from the trim

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4058/4440278058_c9da53dddb_b.jpg

Painted, ready to drill

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4016/4439500629_51665ce3f6_b.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4018/4439500689_939ddd49bf_b.jpg

The blue blanket inside the tank is to catch the glass discs that fall out when the drilling is complete. I'd hate to ruin the front of the tank with a chip or scratch

VtheMaestro

03/20/2010, 02:22 PM

4th post migrated

I wanted to start on my plumbing today, but I'm waiting on my stand to be completed so my measurements will be precise. I'm converting the drain on my sump to 1-1/2", rather than the stock 1", to match the size of the overflow bulkhead. The fittings for 1-1/2" pvc are considerably larger than 1", so space behind my tank is at a premium if I plan to keep it as close to the wall as possible.

The Overflow

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4048/4440277520_ab431d82da_b.jpg

Thanks for the Fundip, Mike

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4012/4440277572_bb3fd267f3_b.jpg

The Return Kit

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4027/4439500225_ce993b8b90_b.jpg

My proposed plumbing setup

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2495/4440321831_f754b8fbc8_o.jpg

I'm open to any questions, comments, and feedback. Speak up

Question: Why are the drains on most sumps 1" instead of 1-1/2" if flow seems to be everyone's primary concern?

5th post migrated

Christmas in March!

Today i received my sump, the Aqueon Proflex model 2. This will house my refugium, pump, skimmer, and uv sterilizer. I plan to mod the drain from the stock 1" elbow to a straight 1-1/2" input (< excuse my terminology, i'm a sound guy, so input and output is all i know)

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4069/4441721198_6a6891790c_b.jpg

6th post migrated

Christmas in March pt 2

I've been scouring the net in search of inspiration for my aquascape and one name kept coming up: Takashi Amano. I was able to find all three of his books in near-mint condition on ebay, so I'm about to dive in. All of the photographs in his books are of freshwater, but the artistic principles in each tank can be applied to any medium.

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4035/4441721126_44e24c74be_b.jpg

I'll snap a few pics of my existing tank as soon as the lights come on. I'll be starting my 'scape with the majority (or none) of those rocks, and the tank's inhabitants will be transplanted once the 57G is complete.

7th post migrated

First set back... I just got my Fluval heater but its too long to fit (even diagonally) in the sump. Any suggestions for a smaller replacement?

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4001/4442151770_3251b6489d_o.jpg

8th post migrated

Here are a few pics from my Biocube 29. The contents of this tank will be the first to move into the 57G. Currently its a pair of clowns, a blue spot jawfish, a 6 line wrasse, a couple shrimp, various (pretty drably colored) coral frags, and a CUC

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2733/4441714265_6ccfba9918_b.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2789/4441714495_7a395902c6_b.jpg

older pics here > My Bio Cube http://bit.ly/dCJ8Ui

VtheMaestro

03/20/2010, 02:30 PM

OK, we're about up to speed.

After much deliberation and research, I've decided on the 23-1/2" Ecoxotic Panorama LED fixture with a few extra stunners instead of the Aqualight Fixture. Power consumption and bulb replacement costs were a major factor.

I'm checking with a local retailer to see if a Reef Octopus skimmer can be mod'ed to decrease its footprint and fit into the Proflex model 2 sump. *fingers crossed*

In the meantime, I decided on a 1/2" return kit to match my mag 7 pump (i don't know what i was thinking when I picked up the 3/4" kit)

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2785/4448878324_6dacd351b0_o.jpg

VtheMaestro

03/20/2010, 03:35 PM

FYI - this build thread was SUPER informative and inspirational to me > http://www.reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1764726

goober35

03/21/2010, 12:06 AM

wrong thread. LOL sorry.

VtheMaestro

03/21/2010, 08:09 PM

I picked up a few pieces of live rock and some aquamend today. I also got a chance to take measurements of the inside of a stand similar to the one I'm having built. It's gonna be a tight squeeze; the sump is 30" long and the inside of the stand is only 36".

Johnny C

03/21/2010, 09:34 PM

FYI - this build thread was SUPER informative and inspirational to me > http://www.reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1764726
Hey, I know that guy! :lmao: Thanks for the plug, I'm glad I could help!

Bouncer

03/22/2010, 04:20 PM

Which Octopus skimmer are you considering?

VtheMaestro

03/24/2010, 08:09 PM

I got my Hydor ETH in line heater, my Vortech powerhead, and an American DJ 8ch power strip today. Still waiting on my order of all black pvc parts from savco.

I was looking into the JBJ auto-topoff or the Tunze Osmolator. I'm wondering if a RKL with double float switch is a better way to go?

I'm open to suggestions...

VtheMaestro

03/24/2010, 08:11 PM

Which Octopus skimmer are you considering?

The Reef Octopus 4. I have my eye on the bubble magus nac6 as well.

VtheMaestro

03/25/2010, 07:22 PM

:hmm4: I kinda feel like i'm blogging, updating for my own sake, but it's all good! Feel free to offer suggestions or feedbacks as you wish.

I finally got my black plumbing from Savco. (plus check valve, pvc clips, and flex pvc)

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2736/4463099873_18e5e24b2a_b.jpg

I also visited Pure Reef in Alpharetta (beautiful store with great selection of fish & coral) and picked up a small Flame Tail Blenny and a Porcelain Crab

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4019/4463099897_716f20dec9_b.jpg

I've decided to pick up a RKL unit with all of the trimmings as well. Now this is getting fun...

Johnny C

03/25/2010, 11:19 PM

Everything looks great and will be a very clean setup. IMO I wouldn't go crazy with the skimmer, one of the new 'half cone' Octo-110's would rock your tank. :)

jbray84

03/25/2010, 11:43 PM

off and running. what does the blenny look like out of the bag? you should have some pics of this thing up and nitrifying by now, and i think with that equip it should look sleek.

mavjoy

03/25/2010, 11:50 PM

Looking great so far! Subscribed..+1 for another illuminata tank:) What are your plans for your scape?

VtheMaestro

03/26/2010, 08:27 AM

Everything looks great and will be a very clean setup. IMO I wouldn't go crazy with the skimmer, one of the new 'half cone' Octo-110's would rock your tank. :)

Thank you very much. That's the skimmer i want the most, but the acrylic base/attached pump make it 1/2" too wide to fit in my narrow sump :mad2: I'm waiting on the word from a local dealer to see if the pump can be disconnected and pvc'd into a new configuration.

off and running. what does the blenny look like out of the bag? you should have some pics of this thing up and nitrifying by now, and i think with that equip it should look sleek.

Yup, I sure am. I'll snap a pic of the blenny when the lights come back on. He likes to hide away in little crevices in the live rock. I think I almost like him more than a midas blenny I used to have. Thanks for the reassurance on my equipment choices.

Looking great so far! Subscribed..+1 for another illuminata tank:) What are your plans for your scape?

Thank you. I definitely want to do the Illuminata justice, its a lovely tank with great potential. I like the trend of minimalist aquascapes, but I don't think they provide an environment that's conducive for adequate biological filtration, so the majority of it has to be done externally. I'm leaning towards a good amount of live rock in natural-looking designs, with a layout that will be easy to clean around, and provides good flow. Wish me luck!

Thanks for all of the replies, I thought I was talking to myself for a second :lolspin:

Sugar Magnolia

03/26/2010, 08:34 AM

Thanks for all of the replies, I thought I was talking to myself for a second :lolspin:

We all do that from time to time. :lol: Everything looks great so far. I've forgotten what it's like, you know, the excitement of setting up a new tank. I live vicariously through other people's new tanks. :lol:

Johnny C

03/26/2010, 06:08 PM

Thank you very much. That's the skimmer i want the most, but the acrylic base/attached pump make it 1/2" too wide to fit in my narrow sump :mad2: I'm waiting on the word from a local dealer to see if the pump can be disconnected and pvc'd into a new configuration.

The 2010 models don't have an acrylic base, just the pump and body itself. If you need exact measurements on it, LMK. ;)

Bouncer

03/26/2010, 07:58 PM

everything looks great and will be a very clean setup. Imo i wouldn't go crazy with the skimmer, one of the new 'half cone' octo-110's would rock your tank. :)

+1

VtheMaestro

03/26/2010, 08:09 PM

The 2010 models don't have an acrylic base, just the pump and body itself. If you need exact measurements on it, LMK. ;)

i just typed the longest explanation of my current dilemma until i realized... I DON'T NEED TO PUT A REFUGIUM IN CHAMBER 2 OF MY SUMP!!!

http://www.aquariumsunlimited.net/store/image.php?id=469&type=D

I can throw the skimmer of my choice in section 2 (11" x 9.5") and put my return pump into the 3rd section (10" x 9.5")

This also means that I can ditch my mag 7 and look into an Eheim return pump. Say, a 1260 or 1262... What do you guys think? Do i lose by ditching the 'fuge? Is Eheim a better buy?

Grassroots

03/26/2010, 08:42 PM

Wow man great looking setup so far. This tank is gonna be awesome.

Mr. Right

03/26/2010, 09:18 PM

I was going to go with a 3/4 return on my setup but with Mag pumps bigger pipe gets higher GPH on the return...food for thought.

Nice setup up BTW!

VtheMaestro

03/26/2010, 09:52 PM

2 monti frags i picked up today. $45 for the pair. Yesterday's flame tail blenny in the background. The flash lit this pic, the main lights are off while they acclimate. I'm wondering when I can turn everything back on and bring these guys to a higher position. My meager biocube pc's shouldn't hurt them, right?

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4027/4466420742_55580b1909_b.jpg

actinics only

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4010/4466420576_6fb542908a_b.jpg

Yesterday's Porcelain Crab residing in his new best friend. What kind of Anemone do I have? I've never seen bubbles on the tips, so i'm assuming it isn't a bubble tip :P

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4008/4466420662_74a79aa970_b.jpg

actinics only

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2785/4466420600_733494b8cf_o.jpg

VtheMaestro

03/26/2010, 09:52 PM

deleted: double post (still getting the hang of this)

VtheMaestro

03/26/2010, 09:54 PM

Wow man great looking setup so far. This tank is gonna be awesome.

thanks man, I appreciate all the advice today at the shop

Nice setup up BTW!

Thank you!

Rennsport

03/26/2010, 11:15 PM

I am enjoying this build thread -- keep up the great work!!

Anthonius

03/27/2010, 01:53 AM

looking great... i want a rimless :(

Av8bluewater

03/27/2010, 09:45 AM

Looks great.. Appears to be a rose bubble tip to me.

saltygeek

03/27/2010, 09:55 AM

This is the next tank I want to get. Looks great. I've been watching a few builds with them and they all stall. Keep up the good work, we'll be watching:p

Anemonebuff

03/27/2010, 10:02 AM

Build looks great. Just watch that blenny. Mine picked at clams and took an occasional pick at my Montis.

VtheMaestro

03/27/2010, 11:19 AM

I am enjoying this build thread -- keep up the great work!!

Thank you. I'll try my best

Looks great.. Appears to be a rose bubble tip to me.

Thank you. I've never seen the characteristic nest of bubbles on it though, I wonder if it's unhappy beneath my power compacts?

looking great... i want a rimless :(

Thank you. I saw the Deep Blue (?) aquarium at my lfs and got hooked. When I saw the Illuminata I had to have it.

This is the next tank I want to get. Looks great. I've been watching a few builds with them and they all stall. Keep up the good work, we'll be watching:p

Thanks. I'm glad I saw it before I committed to another tank. Keep watching... no stalls over here! I've gotta get this show on the road before my son is born. He's due on the 14th. I'm racing against time :lol:

Build looks great. Just watch that blenny. Mine picked at clams and took an occasional pick at my Montis.

Thank you. I'll keep my eye on him. He hasn't joined in the tank's feeding frenzies thus far. I'm gonna research his diet before he starts to nip

solRNY

03/27/2010, 11:49 PM

great setup!
i too have a bubbletip with out bubbles now so your still can be one :)

VtheMaestro

03/28/2010, 03:41 AM

great setup!
i too have a bubbletip with out bubbles now so your still can be one :)
haha, we need to start a bubble-less bubbletip club :beer:

VtheMaestro

03/31/2010, 02:20 PM

New and Improved Equipment List

Glass-Holes overflow/return kit
Aquatic Life 36" Fixture = [(2) 36" T5 HO 39W 420/460 Lamps/(1) G12 150W HID 10,000K Lamp/(4) 1W Lunar LED's] 23.5" Ecoxotic Panorama w/3x 453 nm blue stunner strips, 2x 403nm uv stunners
Coralife Super Skimmer 65 Reef Octopus NWB 110 Skimmer
Mag 7 Pump Tunze Silence 1073
Coralife Turbo-Twist 3x
Aqueon ProFlex Model 2 Sump
Custom Stand w/Custom Side Cabinet
Hydor Koralia Powerhead 2x Vortech MP10es
Fluval E Series 200w Heater Hydor ETH In Line Heater

PLUS...

Reef Keeper Elite 2 w/SL2 module, Double float switch kit
BRS 2 Part Kit w/2x peristaltic pumps

As soon as my stand gets here I can do my measurements for plumbing, handle all the pvc and device work, and get some water moving!

Any suggestions for how I should make the transition over from my BC29? I got one extra bag of live sand and I'll save some water from my next few water changes, but i was hoping i could just dump everything in and add some new water?

Perched Urchin

03/31/2010, 02:54 PM

chaseg89

03/31/2010, 04:27 PM

I am a new member and just found this thread today, but you can bet I will be following it. I have been looking into the Oceanic Illuminata and plan on ordering one on Friday from my LFS. I also just purchased the Reef Octopus 110 last week, seems like it would be perfect for this tank and already have an Octopus HOB on my current 55g and have been really pleased with it.

VtheMaestro

04/01/2010, 09:57 PM

Great build thread! I am following along.

As I plan, I am reading a lot of these. I like it when the plan is laid out and updated along with the progress - gives me more to think about as I go!

PS - how do you keep the back our your biocube so clean?

Thank you. I agree, having a clear plan of what you're aiming to accomplish definitely helps the process move smoothly. Of course we learn along the way and find new information from experienced people, but you must have a goal in mind.

As for keeping the back clean, I take a bit of the sand between my thumb and forefinger, and rub it against the coraline as it begins to appear. It works better than any scraper or tool that i've tried, and it doesnt scrape the back at all.

I am a new member and just found this thread today, but you can bet I will be following it. I have been looking into the Oceanic Illuminata and plan on ordering one on Friday from my LFS. I also just purchased the Reef Octopus 110 last week, seems like it would be perfect for this tank and already have an Octopus HOB on my current 55g and have been really pleased with it.

Thank you for following along. The Illuminata is an awesome tank. I bet as soon as i get this one up and running a 77 gallon version will be available. :worried: I have to wait til the 10th for the octopus to come, I hope it lives up to all of its hype

MarineGirl411

04/01/2010, 11:36 PM

I like this tank! =)

TenKreefer

04/02/2010, 01:18 AM

already looking sexy, I wish I could jump into the hobby this quickly. Still working on getting my first corals

Soferik

04/02/2010, 06:48 AM

Great build so far, you should be very happy with the octopus nwb 110, that's what I run on my Oceanic 58, which is basically the same size as your tank, and it does an awesome job! I would highly recommend running a refugium, I used a 20L as a sump/fuge, with baffles in the middle, you end up with a nice sized fuge in one half and plenty of room in the other half for the reef octo and return pump. I can't recall if you said you already bought the sump or not, but buying a 20L and a couple acrylic baffles will save you alot of money and give you a nice size fuge to boot!

Mr. Right

04/02/2010, 08:34 AM

The 110 is a good skimmer. Really consistant w/ a small footprint. Your tank seems to be coming along well! Can wait to see the end result.

Good Luck

chaseg89

04/02/2010, 10:56 AM

Just got my Octopus 110 today and I definitely think you'll like it. Mine wont be hooked up for a while but it sure looks good. haha

VtheMaestro

04/02/2010, 12:04 PM

double post :(

VtheMaestro

04/02/2010, 12:07 PM

I like this tank! =)

thanks. today was my day to tinker with it, but my wife's water broke this morning. I guess my two weeks to get the tank ready got cut short :bigeyes:

already looking sexy, I wish I could jump into the hobby this quickly. Still working on getting my first corals

Thank you. I have to knock projects out fast before I lose interest. What kind of corals do you keep?

Great build so far, you should be very happy with the octopus nwb 110, that's what I run on my Oceanic 58, which is basically the same size as your tank, and it does an awesome job! I would highly recommend running a refugium, I used a 20L as a sump/fuge, with baffles in the middle, you end up with a nice sized fuge in one half and plenty of room in the other half for the reef octo and return pump. I can't recall if you said you already bought the sump or not, but buying a 20L and a couple acrylic baffles will save you alot of money and give you a nice size fuge to boot!

Thank you. The octopus will be my first skimmer - I'm new to the skimmer game, and didn't want to have a bad "first skimmer experience" with the Super Skimmer. I wanted to run a refugium, the sump I'm using has a place for it...

http://www.aquariumsunlimited.net/store/image.php?id=469&type=D

...but the acrylic base plate for the skimmer is too large to fit in the 3rd chamber with the return pump. Sooooo, I'm gonna have to dedicate the larger 2nd chamber to the skimmer. As a concession, I was thinking of using the octopus h.o.b. refugium over the edge of the sump. thoughts?

Just got my Octopus 110 today and I definitely think you'll like it. Mine wont be hooked up for a while but it sure looks good. haha

I hope so

The 110 is a good skimmer. Really consistant w/ a small footprint. Your tank seems to be coming along well! Can wait to see the end result.

Good Luck

That's what i heard. I hope the footprint ends up being small enough for me to fit the skimmer and my tunze silence pump into one chamber... then i'll be able to use the second chamber for the 'fuge :clown:

Fig70g

04/02/2010, 12:56 PM

VtheMaestro

04/03/2010, 09:24 AM

Looks like a great start! The idea to have the skimmer in the 3rd section with the return would not be the best idea with a fuge in the 2nd chamber. Reason being, there are pods and all kinds of life growing in your fuge, so if the water gets full of life running through the fuge then runs right to the skimmer, you will be taking beneficial stuff out. So if you do the hang on fuge, make sure it isnt dumping right into the skimmer section. This is just info I have picked up along the way, keep up the good work and the pics are great!

thanks for clarifying that! I'll keep the skimmer in section 2, put my return in section 3, and try to plumb in a h.o.b. fuge.

Another option: I may be able to put a vented/lighted acrylic box in the unused portion of the 3rd section and use it for an in-sump fuge. I think the dimensions of the section are 9 x 11 in, while the pump is only 3.4 x 2.6 x 1.88 in. I should be able to create a good environment for the refugium mud, 'pods, and macro.

My only question about fuges is: How large must one be to be advantageous to a body of water? Some would surely argue that an undersized fuge is about as good as no fuge at all. Thoughts?

saltygeek

04/05/2010, 05:13 AM

thanks. today was my day to tinker with it, but my wife's water broke this morning. I guess my two weeks to get the tank ready got cut short :bigeyes:

Congrats on the new addition! Time will be lacking now;) I know my tank went downhill for a few months when my daughter was born. Sleep deprivation sets in quick:sleep:

spllbnd2

04/07/2010, 12:39 AM

Definately a RBTA. Might be because of the pc lighting but I had mine under 130W of pc lighting for a few years and it didn't seem to mind.

Cheers,
Alex

shermdawg

04/07/2010, 11:33 AM

Tank build looks good. Grats on the child(water broke so was delivery made?...you never confirmed.) Keep up the good work on the tank and don't let the little one keep your hands dry. It's not till they are 2 years old that its impossible to work on the tanks so we take no excuses for lack of updates till then:rollface:

Jeremy

VtheMaestro

04/12/2010, 06:49 AM

I had my son on good friday...

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4065/4514623224_a148f083f1.jpg

...so i haven't had a chance to update much, but i've been working on the tank and its going well.
Since last post I've:
-received and modded my ecoxotic led fixture (unboxing thread coming soon)
-drilled and installed overflow/return kit
-modded the aqueon filter with a 1.5" bulkhead to work in my system
-put out the call for a custom acrylic box to use as a refugium 9.5" x 5" x 15"
-purchased brs 2 part mix, pumps, and containers
-received the majority of my RKE system: double float switch, sl2, salinity probe, pc4 (waiting on pH probe and head unit)

pics coming shortly

I'm waiting on a new shipment of black pvc and fittings from Savco to recreate a couple cool things I saw on http://www.melevsreef.com/allmysumps.html. Then i'll be able to get this tank wet.

I'm also thinking about purchasing a RO/DI unit; there's a good looking one at BRS (http://www.bulkreefsupply.com/store/75-gpd-ro-di-5-stage-plus-system.html) that I have my eye on. Any suggestions?

Blascm

04/12/2010, 07:18 AM

Nice tank-Project
And of course congratulations for your son
:thumbsup:

VtheMaestro

04/14/2010, 11:38 AM

I got my new frags from Coral Morphologic. They came right on time - I ended up having a chat with the fedex guy; coincidentally, he's interested in setting up a reef tank

It looks like Colin threw in some extras for me. Its the little things that count the most...

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2744/4521289918_2695bcd2f1.jpg

The Frags:
(a2) Metallic Yellow w/ Purple Undertone (Rare Morph)
(d8) 7 Polyps - 'Miami Vice'
(c7) Purple-Lavender-Teal
(g6) 15 Polyps - Pink -> Aqua-Blue

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4023/4520652847_5673490d3f.jpg

Check out this article from Complex Magazine. Ever since seeing it I've been on a hunt for the Pederson Cleaner shrimp, and it was what prompted me to purchase from CM. I try to patronize my atlanta reef club sponsors and local LFS's as much as possible, this was my first time buying livestock online. Definitely a pleasurable experience

http://coralmorphologic.com/b/wp-content/uploads/2010/04/Complex-Nano1.jpg

chaseg89

04/14/2010, 03:43 PM

Cant wait to see how everything looks. Sounds like its coming along and congratulations on your son.

jayflo29

04/26/2010, 11:54 AM

nice thread great pics.

VtheMaestro

04/28/2010, 04:59 PM

My 3 week old Brenton has been taking away my computer time, but i've been working non-stop to get 'his' tank up and running...

Once I got my main cabinet and side cabinet (with no-slam hinges and color matched stain) from Greg at Optimum Aquarium, I was able to do the measurements for my plumbing and to hang my light fixture

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/108/4561836846_a7846934bd.jpg

Mike at Glass Holes suggested a 1.5" drain so I drilled into the back side of the sump and threw a bulkhead in there

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3127/4561207681_8a929af8d7.jpg

After some research on Melev's Reef for ideas on my final plumbing, a couple freshwater wet tests, and a full drain of the tank to make it sit level, here's the finished product...

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4031/4561209469_a9a84a1a90_b.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4023/4561838746_f36f620d03_b.jpg

403nm and 453 nm stunners only...

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4056/4561839058_4fea73579d_b.jpg

VtheMaestro

04/28/2010, 05:10 PM

Both cabinets are lighted inside; the smaller one houses my brs top off bottles, 2 peristaltic pumps, my top off reservoir, and my reefkeeper powerstrips.

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3181/4561209581_12e61bbbd1_b.jpg

The large cabinet is the base for the tank and houses the Aqueon Proflex model 2 sump, aqualifter ato pump, tunze 1073 return pump, reef octopus nwb 110 skimmer, reefkeeper elite head unit, reefkeeper sl2, probes, float switches, and vortech wireless drivers.

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3499/4561838850_2d3084c1d7_b.jpg

John at All Things Aquatic in Hiram came by to help design a custom refugium box that will be fabricated by MRC. It will sit below the left pipe tee'd off from the return, and overflow back into the return chamber of the sump

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4018/4561209699_4aa7595fb6.jpg

I got this idea from Melev; i can control the flow and dwell time thru the fuge, ensure that chaeto doesn't clog up my return, and keep pods in their place

tqpolo

04/28/2010, 10:41 PM

Wow. Very clean and professional install.

Grassroots

04/28/2010, 11:16 PM

Looking really good. Cant wait to see everything when its all grown out and fully established.

mavjoy

04/28/2010, 11:26 PM

Great looking set up!

VtheMaestro

04/28/2010, 11:35 PM

Cant wait to see how everything looks. Sounds like its coming along and congratulations on your son.

check it out, it came along well. thanks, he's gonna be a great kid.

nice thread great pics.

thank you, i'm working on my pics, i may try to use a tripod next time

Wow. Very clean and professional install.

thank you very much. This is something I have to look at daily, so I wanted it to look attractive all around

Looking really good. Cant wait to see everything when its all grown out and fully established.

Thank you, I can't wait either! I don't want a tank full of gsp and buttons, so I need to start researching some nice corals to really set it off.

Great looking set up!

thanks, hopefully it'll get better

saltygeek

04/29/2010, 07:04 AM

Coming along great. How are the corals liking the light?

VtheMaestro

04/29/2010, 08:37 AM

Coming along great. How are the corals liking the light?

everything looks happy. I'm actually seeing bubbles on my bubble tip for the fist time since I bought it. I run 2 uv stunners 24/7, so I figure they're doing something good for the internal growth of the corals. We'll see how the panorama holds up over time

VtheMaestro

04/29/2010, 09:04 AM

the biggest challenges were balancing the rocks, since none of them rest on the glass; and creating a scape that's attractive when viewed from all 3 angles

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3197/4561838998_edd3b5aa0a.jpg

Fogcutter

04/29/2010, 09:27 AM

Amazing setup! Very clean and tidy which is what I'm aspiring to do myself. Thanks for the inspiration!

VtheMaestro

04/29/2010, 03:17 PM

Amazing setup! Very clean and tidy which is what I'm aspiring to do myself. Thanks for the inspiration!

thank you. I did as much research as i could and tried to incorporate as many things I liked from other tanks as possible. I'm glad you like the outcome

jimlundborg

04/29/2010, 08:17 PM

That looks so clean!! Amazing I'm so jealous.

VtheMaestro

04/30/2010, 09:31 AM

That looks so clean!! Amazing I'm so jealous.

thanks jim

VtheMaestro

05/06/2010, 04:36 PM

i rescaped the tank today. My jawfish had been pretty busy digging up sand and i wanted to make sure that everything was stable. I took out all of the sand, redid the rockwork, then added the sand back in, minus a few pounds. This should be easier to clean and leaves less of the rock submerged under the substrate. I'll post pics in a while.

SawdustInTank

05/06/2010, 05:54 PM

Sweet set up. Diggin' the side cabinet!

sammy113

05/09/2010, 05:27 PM

Tank looks great! Love all the equipment. How do you like the Octo Skimmer? I was thinking to pick up one of those. Had a really hard time with the NAC7 these days

VtheMaestro

05/09/2010, 10:01 PM

Sweet set up. Diggin' the side cabinet!

Thank you. I anticipated being low on space underneath the tank, so I had the extra cabinet built. It works out great as a little computer table and keeps the plugs away from moisture and salt creep

Tank looks great! Love all the equipment. How do you like the Octo Skimmer? I was thinking to pick up one of those. Had a really hard time with the NAC7 these days

Thank you very much. I like the skimmer so far. My bioload is fairly low and i skim pretty dry so i haven't seen a ton of junk yet, but its quiet and puts out a ton of bubbles. It's worth checking out and there are a few mods to make it even better

maddog2002

05/09/2010, 10:43 PM

Looks great!

VtheMaestro

05/10/2010, 08:41 AM

Looks great!

thanks man. do you have a build thread up here?

CorkPullerPHL

05/10/2010, 08:48 AM

Nice tight setup. Looks really clean.

Good work!

Reefobsession

05/10/2010, 11:14 AM

Wow you have a very clean setup there. Your parts under the hood are very neat and organized. I love the small cabinet you made for two part and ATO.

VtheMaestro

05/11/2010, 10:00 AM

Nice tight setup. Looks really clean.

Good work!
Thank You, I hope it stays clean lol

Wow you have a very clean setup there. Your parts under the hood are very neat and organized. I love the small cabinet you made for two part and ATO.

Thank you very much. I knew everything wouldn't fit under one cabinet neatly, and I wanted to keep the plugs away from moisture. It came out nice

Coral Morphologic strikes again!...
I ordered a few new rics from CM and my buddy Colin really showed out this time! He just did a take down of one of his mentor's reefs and sent a couple frags my way. I don't know what they are, so I don't know where to place them... I'll put them down low for now until I can get a positive ID. In-tank pics coming soon - stay tuned.

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1104/4598353013_037ea45c89.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4043/4598972134_45b36d85db.jpg

sammy113

05/11/2010, 12:02 PM

Collin seems to be a great guy to deal with. Can't wait to see those in you tank!

VtheMaestro

05/11/2010, 12:11 PM

These are the tank's lights. Can anyone tell me what they equate to in non-led terms?

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1251/4598677735_97438d5a27_o.jpg

maddog2002

05/11/2010, 02:23 PM

thanks man. do you have a build thread up here?

No. I don't have build thread. My 135G tank already setup for years. Now I am shopping for new LED light system. What is reason you choose this light?

Fishdude1984

05/11/2010, 05:07 PM

when do we get to see your rescape?

bqwertpl

05/17/2010, 07:56 PM

nice LIGHTS.. I looked into them.. but I have few problems.. I do not have access to back of my tank, so I couldnt install it the way U have it.. is there any hanging kit U can use to instal them?

Also, how can U control these lights? Can U dim them, turn ON/OFF white and blues separately??

Who makes those LEDs chips? Cree? any cooling system/fan?

Thanks for any info.

VtheMaestro

05/18/2010, 02:15 PM

nice LIGHTS.. is there any hanging kit U can use to instal them?

Also, how can U control these lights? Can U dim them, turn ON/OFF white and blues separately??

Who makes those LEDs chips? Cree? any cooling system/fan?

Thanks for any info.
There's a wall mount kit that doesn't require access to the back of the tank. There's no ceiling hanging option that I know of.
I control my 3 light stages with my reefkeeper elite. The uv's stay on 24/7, the blues are on a switch, and the white/blue panoramas are on a switch. I plan to add 2 all white stunners on a switch as an extra mode for when company is viewing the tank and I want more brightness. They aren't dimmable that I know of. I'm not familiar with the details of the led chips, Evil would know better than I. There aren't any fans, even with all of the stunners i've retrofitted, the fixture puts off a negligible amount of heat. its lukewarm to the touch

No. I don't have build thread. My 135G tank already setup for years. Now I am shopping for new LED light system. What is reason you choose this light?
i chose these for:
heat = doesn't need fans)
power consumption = I hardly notice a change on my electric bill
life = led lasts waaaay longer than other lights
upkeep costs = I didn't want to be replacing t5/mh bulbs every 6-8 months
design = it was very attractive and unique
3 plugs = the whole system doesn't become inoperable if one thing goes bad

Collin seems to be a great guy to deal with. Can't wait to see those in you tank!
yup he is. pics coming soon.

when do we get to see your rescape?
as soon as I get this frag rack I ordered. i have 2 3-way breeders suction cupped to the sides temporarily, so the tank looks funny

VtheMaestro

05/18/2010, 02:18 PM

a side shot as I contemplate proper powerhead placement
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3358/4610486057_d15469da08.jpg

VtheMaestro

06/11/2010, 09:46 PM

New Pics!
FTS, blues on
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4004/4692484568_d49ca3c056_b.jpg

FTS, no blue
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4035/4691852585_649577eb5a_b.jpg

Right Side shot
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4062/4691853619_14a279a00e_b.jpg

Top Down
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4021/4691854445_6ed5cd422b_b.jpg

adam87

06/11/2010, 09:56 PM

Nice tank. :wave:

sammy113

06/11/2010, 11:50 PM

Nice!

aykim2188

06/12/2010, 11:06 AM

I plan to add 2 all white stunners on a switch as an extra mode for when company is viewing the tank and I want more brightness.

Company as in weezy:inlove::eek2:

VtheMaestro

06/12/2010, 11:28 AM

Nice!
thank you

Nice tank. :wave:
thanks. hey, arent you the german shepherd from.... lol

Company as in weezy:inlove::eek2:
yeah, like weezy. lol

aykim2188

06/12/2010, 12:19 PM

0_o

You should post some pics when you have publicly recognizable company over lol.

i think this would be the first time celebrities would be on reefcentral lol.
i went to a drizzy concert few months back and he got the crowed hyped into saying free weezy. only a few more days till tml!

saltygeek

06/13/2010, 05:52 AM

Looks great, thanks for updating.

adam87

06/13/2010, 01:16 PM

Yes, I am same person. :wave:

fishnub

06/17/2010, 02:21 PM

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4018/4561209699_4aa7595fb6.jpg

I got this idea from Melev; i can control the flow and dwell time thru the fuge, ensure that chaeto doesn't clog up my return, and keep pods in their place

do you have more info on this? ive never seen a return pump "t'd" like that to put water back into the sump. or is that just for an easy water change?

sammy113

06/17/2010, 06:29 PM

also, its the best way to reduce water flow without restricting the head pressure

fishnub

06/17/2010, 06:34 PM

so pretty much it cuts flow with out stressing the pump?

sammy113

06/17/2010, 11:45 PM

you got that right sir ;) Also a good idea for water changes, but depends a lot on how many gallons does the return compartment holds

hdov

10/07/2010, 07:14 PM

quick question is the proflex sump glass or acrylic?

drew_l

11/06/2010, 11:16 AM

Sad to see this thread ended !!

Any progress since October ?

Pylos

11/06/2010, 01:31 PM

Very nice setup, I love how clean your sump area is.

Is that blue jawfish still in this tank? I've read everywhere they are notorious jumpers.

kellerexpress

11/10/2010, 05:09 AM

updates?

newyorkstyles

12/02/2010, 03:11 AM

I just got the model 4 sump from proflex and will be using it as a hybrid system with the refugium. I have 2 videos on my YouTube channel talking about the good and the bad of the sump. Thanks to this thread, I bought and am quite happy with it. You can see the video reviews in this link below.

http://www.reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?p=17996004#post17996004

drew_l

12/22/2010, 09:54 PM

Just wanted to bump this thread - and possibly prod Maestro out of the shadows of early-parenthood. :spin3:

Vpham97

12/27/2010, 06:05 PM

Can you please provide the dimension of the last chamber of your Proflex model 2 sump? I'm trying to figure which model will fit my Bubble Magus NAC6 skimmer in the return pump chamber.

saltygeek

12/29/2010, 08:07 AM

This is the next tank I want to get. Looks great. I've been watching a few builds with them and they all stall. Keep up the good work, we'll be watching:p

Congrats on the new addition! Time will be lacking now;) I know my tank went downhill for a few months when my daughter was born. Sleep deprivation sets in quick:sleep:

Just wanted to bump this thread - and possibly prod Maestro out of the shadows of early-parenthood. :spin3:

I knew it! LOL We need an update Maestro:bounce3:

ejcatmul

01/12/2011, 02:07 AM

Need to see more please

USN retired

03/01/2011, 11:20 AM

Is the overflow from glass holes noisy? What about the sump, Noisy?

broland

03/18/2011, 09:31 PM

wow small interwebs.. havent seen you over @ GS in a while maestro! nice tank.

MarineGirl411

03/24/2011, 09:38 PM

Updates?

VtheMaestro

09/25/2011, 10:40 PM

wow small interwebs.. havent seen you over @ GS in a while maestro! nice tank.
haha. i've been away from gs for some time. my sluthood ended once i moved to logic and got the sony c800; there's nothing else i want to buy (besides the yamaha dx100 i just scored on ebay) Thanks for the compliment, this is my other hobby

Is the overflow from glass holes noisy? What about the sump, Noisy?
Not at all. I've done a couple extra tweaks in the sump to keep it extra quiet, especially with the cabinet doors closed

Updates?Need to see more please
I knew it! LOL We need an update Maestro:bounce3:

updates shortly. Between producing, parenthood, and writing a book (http://soundsandsuccess.com/about/), i've been swamped. Now that my son can say "fish" (sounds more like "shish") I've had a renewed interest in my tank and the hobby. pics on the way

VtheMaestro

09/26/2011, 08:01 PM

Back with some updates. Pics of the Proflex sump and the custom MRC mini-fuge. The fuge is 3 sides black acrylic with a clear front for viewing. The back wall has overflow teeth. The box, which sits in the 3rd chamber of the sump leaving just enough room for the pump, is fed off a T in the return line and overflows into the return chamber. I'm not sure how much biological filtration it actually provides, but there's a nice pod population in there that ideally makes its way into the display to feed the tank. The macros and mangroves are doing well.

ampemployee1

09/26/2011, 10:27 PM

ampemployee1

09/26/2011, 10:29 PM

I see you have 2 on your system. I bought 1 MP10es, but I've seen a lot of feedback that 2 would be better. Thoughts?

VtheMaestro

09/26/2011, 10:46 PM

Maestro, Nice innovation around the custom fuge. I pick up my illuminata/stand/proflex sump on Wednesday. I've been struggling with how to address the limited space in the last chamber for the return and skimmer. Thank you for posting the pics.

Ed

i had to do a lot of searching and returning before i settled on the perfect skimmer. That model sits nicely in the center chamber so i'm happy with it.

Once you know the exact dimensions of your return pump, you can have someone build you a similar partition/box to serve as a fuge.

VtheMaestro

09/26/2011, 10:50 PM

I see you have 2 on your system. I bought 1 MP10es, but I've seen a lot of feedback that 2 would be better. Thoughts?

i'd definitely suggest two 10's over one 10 or larger vortech. If your return is fairly powerful and angled in the right direction, one 10 in the perfect spot will compliment it and still do a lot of good. Two 10's will allow you more flow patterns and options, and also allow you to run both at lower levels. Even for a small machine, the sound of it ramping up to over 75% or pulsing in wave mode at 85% can really break the silence.

VtheMaestro

09/27/2011, 09:51 AM

Does anyone have experience with the new magenta stunners from ecoxotic? I added 2 blue/magenta combo strips, but i'm thinking of adding about 3 more. Thoughts?

feh

09/27/2011, 10:31 AM

Nice build...

VtheMaestro

09/27/2011, 10:39 AM

Nice build...

thanks

VtheMaestro

09/27/2011, 01:16 PM

As promised, more updates. A full system shot showing the tank, sump, and side cabinet with topoff. The magenta/blue lights aren't on, but you get the idea . My favorite thing about my scape is that no rocks touch the glass, everything is securely stacked for perfect flow and viewability

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6028/6189976292_bafb9cf5a0_z.jpg

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6166/6189457367_d0ff38a322_z.jpg

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6168/6189975572_309c26676d_z.jpg

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6146/6189974802_85ac4af1fe_z.jpg

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6137/6189458337_8ee98451c7_z.jpg

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6173/6189977084_ea2e31e71a_z.jpg

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6167/6189976574_c239bd6ed7_z.jpg

VtheMaestro

09/27/2011, 02:10 PM

Current livestock (besides snails/crabs)
-(some kind of really attractive) red fairy wrasse
-yellow coris wrasse
-yasha/pistol pair
-flametail blenny
-pair of kupang damsels
-pair of black clowns

Looking to ditch the clowns bcuz they bore me and bite me. What are some attractive free swimming fish i can add that aren't major carpet surfing risks? (no anthias, cardinals, sand sifters, or firefish please)

ampemployee1

09/27/2011, 09:06 PM

TheFishTeen

09/27/2011, 09:30 PM

Johnny C

09/27/2011, 10:41 PM

VtheMaestro

09/27/2011, 11:11 PM

VtheMaestro,

thanks for all the help. I'm picking up my Illuminata, Proflex 2 sump, Stand, Skimmer and lights tomorrow. Lots of fun ahead...How did you migrate from your Biocube to the Illuminata? I'm thinking about using my current 29 gallon as a frag tank...but using most of the livestock.
I put new sand, water, a little cured live rock, the live rock and a little sand from the cube into the 57 - and let that run for about a 2 weeks. Each day i would change the pads from the cube's filter, wring them out into the tank, and throw them in the sump. Once my water tests looked good, I just floated my fish in as of they were brand new. The tank never had much of a heavy cycle to speak of.

VtheMaestro

09/27/2011, 11:12 PM

Ever considered a Possum Wrasse?

How about a Leopard Wrasse?

Thanks, but I'm not sure I want any more wrasses. Lol

VtheMaestro

09/27/2011, 11:14 PM

Wow... I really can't believe how much the system has matured and grown since my last visit to this thread. From the aquascape and coral placement, I'm diggin' it! :)

PS- Next time, don't leave us hanging for almost a year... I was starting to think you wouldn't come back! :hammer:

Thanks Johnny. I'm glad you like it. I'll stick around this time. Doesn't look like I'll be having more kids any time soon. Lol

BennyFrank

09/27/2011, 11:19 PM

VtheMaestro

09/27/2011, 11:40 PM

Quality work, all around ;) (best of luck on the book!)

How long did it take for your mangroves to show leaves? I got a few propagules, about 2 months ago, that have ~6" of root growth but no leaves yet.

Thank you ben. Roots didnt take long, maybe about 4 months for it to sprout. I didn't keep accurate track

ampemployee1

10/02/2011, 10:59 AM