Starting Out.

[just_kiddin]

I am looking for a tank between 30-50gal that is self retained... Kinda like this.

http://a1272.g.akamai.net/7/1272/1121/20061024150625/www.drsfostersmith.com/images/Categoryimages/thumbnail/th_28366_24539_nano_cube.jpg

[SuperNerd]

Can you elaborate more on what you mean by "self retained?"

[just_kiddin]

has the filter, lighting all contained. Like the above.

[jeffb3t]

If you mean a kit, you will probably spend more money than buying the items you need individually. Check out some of the other setups here to get ideas. Also, Welcome to RC!!

[sea student]

The all in one packages like that don't always contain the best equipment. They are usually difficult to add stuff to down the road because they are so compactly designed. Have you gone to your LFS to see what kind of package setups they have? They usually have better deals when you buy it all together, but you still have some flexibility.

[sarduci]

They make a 29g tank like that. Look for "Aquapod". I really like my 12g Nanocube. I currently have all of my LPS's in my stock Nanocube until they find new homes.

[SuperNerd]

Yeah, IMHO, in most cases those "starter kits" are usually just put together to get people to buy them. People end up thinking they have everything they need to all of a sudden start keeping corals and fish...but those kits don't necessarily come with equipment many in the hobby would consider keeping down the road.

I once thought they were great deals...not anymore thanks to RC. :D

[just_kiddin]

ok thanks for your help. Ill leave the kits alone and pick my own equipment.

[SuperNerd]

By the way when it comes to reef tanks...more volume gives you "more room for errors." Smaller isn't necessarily easier to take care of. :)

[Poorcollegereef]

yeah, ask around about which skimmers, lighting, and other equipment are best within your price range, you will get some of the best advice in the hobby here. welcome to the addiction