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View Full Version : Good Choices For A 75G?


nosferatu51
09/04/2006, 11:12 PM
I'm looking into setting up a 75G. I already have the tank and stand, so they don't need to be factored into a budget. Anyways, I would REALLY like to stay under $1200 with the equipment and live rock and it seems I may have come close with this setup.
I would really appreciate if you could tell me whether there are any issues with it or whether there are any cheaper substitutes that work just as well.

75G Equipment:
Sump/Refugium: Modified old 20L tank
Skimmer: ASM G1X (although I would love to save $100 and get a Coralife 220 if people tell me that I wouldn't notice a huge difference) $257 (or $150 CSS220)
Lighting: Aquamedic 2x250W 10K HQI + 2x54W T5 Actinics ($640)
Return Pump: MagDrive 950 ($70)
Powerheads: 2x Maxijet 900s with mjmods ($80)
LR: Approx 90# ($360)

TOTAL: $1400

If there are any ways that you can think of so I can shave a few bucks off to get me closer to my budget (eg: the CSS220 being a viable substitute) I would really appreciate the ideas. Also, does anyone see anything problematic with this hardware setup? Is there anything missing (besides test kits, thermometers, heaters)?

mg426
09/04/2006, 11:41 PM
I would get the ASM skimmer over the CSS. It will outperform it by a mile and than some. Look here www.asmskimmer.com Also look at the reef Octopus line they are really getting some attention.

sjm817
09/05/2006, 04:09 AM
Go with a 30L for the sump if you can.
Use a smaller return pump like a Mag7

jag1979
09/05/2006, 06:32 AM
http://www.aquamartonline.com/catalog/item/2438561/2056850.htm

asm 1x 219 including shipping

nosferatu51
09/05/2006, 04:17 PM
Thanks for the G1X link, that was a big help. I don't really think $10 is worth the flow difference on the pump, but thanks for the suggestion. Also, the reason I'm using the 20L, at least temporarily, is because I already have one (the tank that is being upgraded).
I bit the bullet and ordered everything. The G1X at that link, I found cheaper rock at marinedepot, and the rest at the prices given. Hope they are good selections! :) All my research says so though.....

Snarkys
09/08/2006, 12:23 PM
i agree . go asm

mburnickas
09/08/2006, 12:48 PM
aqua-c with eheim pump

sammyp
09/08/2006, 01:29 PM
you could DIY lighting for alot less than $640. check out ahsupply.com

john37
09/08/2006, 01:56 PM
does your tank have an overflow built in? if not you're gonna have to buy one and plumbing costs money as well.

for the skimmer, stick w/an ASM.
you didn't list a heater, sand, and salt.

you could probably save a little money if you buy the skimmer, pump, and powerheads used.

good luck and have fun!

RicGio
09/08/2006, 03:21 PM
tagging along.

75reef
09/09/2006, 02:18 AM
Good choices, you will not be disappointed in your journey. Post some pics.

rkelman
09/09/2006, 06:15 AM
Good choices I think but the CSS 220 would handle that tank no problem (I have one)