SRO xp 2000 vs Skimz sk181

[bamf25]

I have a 120g dt with a 40 g sump and a total water volume of about 130g. I am debating getting a new skimmer and have kinda narrowed it down to these 2. This is a new setup for about 4 months, and the current skimmer is ok, but I am not 100% happy with it.

Which of these two skimmers would be better? I know the Skimz is a new brand to the market but is getting decent reviews.

If you feel that both these may be slightly small once I get my system upto full bioload the next choices would be the SRO xp 3000, or the Skimz SK 201. If you have any other skimmers you feel would be worth looking at around the same price point ($500 or so) please list them.

[wildman926]

What is it with your current skimmer that you are not 100% happy about?

[bamf25]

About a 5 year old ATI Bubble Master 250 (which is a little large for the system to begin with). The older sicce 2500's are damn loud, are not very efficient, and rather than spend $300 ish to replace the old pumps, I would rather spend $400 to $500 on a new skimmer.

[redmarble]

Which of these two skimmers would be better? I know the Skimz is a new brand to the market but is getting decent reviews.

SKIMZ brand has been around in Asia for several years, now. They are very popular in the region.

I would definitely try a SKIMZ skimmer.

[dzfish17]

I've heard good things about both but I went with the sro xp5000. I needed an external skimmer and it really pulls out the gunk. I think the xp2000 is about right for your system.

[suta4242]

I have had an SK181 since late april and have had a lot of trouble with the ES2000 pump and impellor. Unfortunately, locally, I am not alone. So while the exterior build looks nice etc they are let down by the pumps. This has just been my experience but if I were you I would think twice if you are after long term reliabilty...at least until the manufacturer irons out these problems.

[JPhan1]

I think the sk181 might be a little to small for your setup j think if your going to choose skimz the sm161 with the es2800 pump would be better than the sk181 and if it was my choice I think the sm201 with es5000 pump would fit your setup nicely

[dustinc]

I have had an SK181 since late april and have had a lot of trouble with the ES2000 pump and impellor. Unfortunately, locally, I am not alone. So while the exterior build looks nice etc they are let down by the pumps. This has just been my experience but if I were you I would think twice if you are after long term reliabilty...at least until the manufacturer irons out these problems.

I have had an SK 181 since about the same time and I've had zero issues with my pump. I'm very surprised you have as well. The pumps are made by Italian company Eden who makes the compact line for Eheim. They are very tried and true outside the US and have been popular for years. I replaced an Reef Octopus 1000 with the Skimz SK181 and couldn't be happier. The acrylic work is MUCH nicer, the pump uses less power, and is more quiet. Best of all, 0 microbubbles which I couldn't say about the Super Reef Octopus. Much better performer as well. I would go with the SM 201 w/ Eden 5000 pump for your setup.

[JAustin]

Get the xp2000. Great skimmer, customer service, and 3 year warrantee on the pump.

[bamf25]

Amazing how this can just muddle things more. lol I was also questioning whether the sk181 seems a bit small (the ratings they give seem absurd with Skimz), but I think I want to stay cone so the sk201 has the es 2800 pump. Oh course the new leopards look cool, but they seem like they are intended for hugh systems.

Based on the SRO Octopus threads the xp 2000 is the right from that maker for my tank.