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06/17/2013, 05:26 PM | #1 |
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aquamaxx ConeS CO 1 skimmer review
I figured instead of continually hijacking the other thread I was posting on (apologies!), I would do it right and start fresh.
when I first saw this skimmer I knew I wanted it because of the small footprint, unique design and quality syncra pump. Box arrived from Marine depot unscaved-Good start! everything was wrapped and secured between two thick foam cut outs with a cardboard insert organizing things. My wife kicked me out of the house because we had company so I took it to the garage and laid it out on the good old washer/dryer. All components were intact and no defects to note. First thing I noticed was everything apears to be acrylic with the exception of the diverter inside the adjustable riser on the output. Also, all edges are polished-Nice! I noticed the silencer comes off with a few turns of the set screw which will make it super easy to clean if salt and dust builds up. break down; everything comes apart except the effluent/output riser which seems to be hot glued to the body of the reaction chamber. Cleaning this thing will be a breeze. cone BB plate comes off easily by removing the two black set screws. I'm glad they didnt hot glue that to the lip of the tube. It should be much easier to clean this way the neck has a short twist lock (1/2 to lock) and as you can see, it has a silicone o-ring. The transition is flush thru the neck when the cup is attached so bubble friction should be minimized.
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I told you not to be stupid you moron!(Stern) Current Tank Info: 60 gal cube/20g tideline sump-mixed reef, Aquamaxx c-tech Ca Rx, Akula 160 skimmer, paxbellum N18, mitras LX7 lighting with T-5s, apex controller Last edited by reeftivo; 06/17/2013 at 05:36 PM. |
06/17/2013, 05:27 PM | #2 |
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continued
the cup is a bit larger than I expected and with the slant it should allow a little extra volume. It is similar to the foam extractor design by tunze and channels/concentrates the foam up to the oval opening before spilling down the neck. here's the little gear bag which contains the drain tube, ziplock, pump mount adapter and instructions. The instructions are very basic. another cool thing I like is the set screws at the base of the reaction tube. You can see them in this pic. a couple quick twists of each and the body slips right off without having to remove the whole screw-Nice! One thing I found out (LOL) was to position the pump so that the holes for the screws on the body are at the sides of the pump. Otherwise the pump wont mount properly. The pump is a sicce 2.0 motor block with the shark 1.5 branding. Its the custom volute and impeller assembly that make it a shark pump. a note about the pump. The intake can only be attached with the airline nipple facing up or down (no side to side) because it is notched at the pump to fit tight and snug. I found this created a fairly significant bend in the air line when routing it up to the silencer. It did not crimp though so no issue there for me.
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I told you not to be stupid you moron!(Stern) Current Tank Info: 60 gal cube/20g tideline sump-mixed reef, Aquamaxx c-tech Ca Rx, Akula 160 skimmer, paxbellum N18, mitras LX7 lighting with T-5s, apex controller |
06/17/2013, 05:28 PM | #3 |
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only nit picking I can really do so far is point out a couple things. 1)that the drain for the cup is slightly oversized for the tube that comes off of it so thats why they provided a zip tie in the gear bag.
2) would be the silencer will fill with water if you go higher than the flange (9.5in). A washer would solve that and allow you to run it a bit deeper. I would try an o-ring I have but I'm pretty sure the set screw wouldn't be long enough with it. It looks purdy doesn't it? I have had it running since yesterday morning and when I installed it I hooked up my Dwyer RMB meter up to it to see how accurate the air numbers would be and it was close. I had 12scfh (330lph) and the bubbles in this thing are as dense as some of my other skimmers which pulled in excess of 500lph. granted it's not pulling those numbers but the design doesn't seem to need all that air. I'm running it at 9 1/4 inches right now but that may change later. The skimmer runs almost silent. Even quieter than my old BK 160 mini and that was the most solinet skimmer I've owned. here's a cruddy short video I made yesterday http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sTJkq...nofeather=True I'm sure I missed some things but I see a winner so far and will keep you all updated as to how it's progressing. It's my opinion that this skimmer would be good for systems 80 gal or less but that may change depending on how it responds after break in. If it pulls well then idles like some of the larger skimmers I've ran then it may handle bigger systems like the manufacturers specs indicate. Happy Reefing Tivo
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I told you not to be stupid you moron!(Stern) Current Tank Info: 60 gal cube/20g tideline sump-mixed reef, Aquamaxx c-tech Ca Rx, Akula 160 skimmer, paxbellum N18, mitras LX7 lighting with T-5s, apex controller Last edited by reeftivo; 06/17/2013 at 05:46 PM. |
06/17/2013, 05:43 PM | #4 |
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Nice review. How big is the base? What size tank is this going on? Thanks
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120 (4X2X2), 2x250 Phoenix 14k MH with 2X ATI Purple Plus T5 HO, 2x Vortech MP40 ES, 400 gallon sump system. Current Tank Info: 120 gallon SPS Tank w/ 400 gallon sump...... |
06/17/2013, 05:55 PM | #5 | |
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Quote:
It's currently on a 39 DT with a 15 gallon sump, moderate bioload (mixed reef, 3 fish)
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I told you not to be stupid you moron!(Stern) Current Tank Info: 60 gal cube/20g tideline sump-mixed reef, Aquamaxx c-tech Ca Rx, Akula 160 skimmer, paxbellum N18, mitras LX7 lighting with T-5s, apex controller |
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06/18/2013, 07:35 AM | #6 |
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http://www.reefcentral.com/forums/at...1&d=1371561752
36 hours without vinegar bath prior to installation.
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I told you not to be stupid you moron!(Stern) Current Tank Info: 60 gal cube/20g tideline sump-mixed reef, Aquamaxx c-tech Ca Rx, Akula 160 skimmer, paxbellum N18, mitras LX7 lighting with T-5s, apex controller |
06/18/2013, 08:37 AM | #7 |
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Nice review and skimmer.
I have had 3 EM series skimmers, and they all have been very nice and well thought out. I curious as to how the collection cup will work out. Having the slash cut removes a couple of inches of dwell time, IMHO. I would have preferred a standard cup and added an "umbrella" to the top to help empty the waste into the collection cup, similar to the Korallen Revolution skimmers. The curve at the very center of the lid helps the skim slide to the side. Here is what I am talking about -
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06/18/2013, 09:28 AM | #8 | |
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Quote:
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I told you not to be stupid you moron!(Stern) Current Tank Info: 60 gal cube/20g tideline sump-mixed reef, Aquamaxx c-tech Ca Rx, Akula 160 skimmer, paxbellum N18, mitras LX7 lighting with T-5s, apex controller |
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06/18/2013, 09:40 AM | #9 |
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Quote:
The cones on the bubble plate seem to calm things down quite a bit. So that, in addition to the smooth neck transition into the slanted cup, appear to press the foam (for lack of better word) into the collection cup. Seems to be breaking in nicely. I posted earlier that I had a moderate bio load on the system but I should have said light since I have moved many of my corals to a QT tank at a friends house in preparation for my awful house tenting in a couple weeks. It was postponed for a bit and I haven't moved the rest yet. There is still 3 fish, a boat load of shrooms, 2 decent size softies and assorted LPS in there now so Light bioload would seem a better description for now. IMO the skimmer is performing very well so far. we'll see after a week or so. Happy Reefing tivo
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I told you not to be stupid you moron!(Stern) Current Tank Info: 60 gal cube/20g tideline sump-mixed reef, Aquamaxx c-tech Ca Rx, Akula 160 skimmer, paxbellum N18, mitras LX7 lighting with T-5s, apex controller Last edited by reeftivo; 06/18/2013 at 09:58 AM. |
06/18/2013, 11:38 AM | #10 | ||
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Quote:
Quote:
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06/18/2013, 12:32 PM | #11 |
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Thanks wildman (-:
it's chugging along. When I fed last night the foam head cr@pped out for 15 minutes then started pulling real fast. After that it was about 30 minutes before it settled back down to a slow roll. I wish I had taken a picture then but I'll get one tonight. That kind of indicates to me that this thing will keep up no problem, idle nicely, then pull hard when it needs to. But it's early still. I was thinking NO WAY this thing can handle 175 gallons like aquamaxx indicates but who knows-Maybe! I'm thinking a light stocked 120 though
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I told you not to be stupid you moron!(Stern) Current Tank Info: 60 gal cube/20g tideline sump-mixed reef, Aquamaxx c-tech Ca Rx, Akula 160 skimmer, paxbellum N18, mitras LX7 lighting with T-5s, apex controller |
06/18/2013, 12:39 PM | #12 |
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Do you think this skimmer is oversized for your tank? It's rated for much higher than your tank.
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06/18/2013, 01:00 PM | #13 | |
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My total system size is 54 gallons and net I have about 45 gallons of water. If it sits idle for any significant amount of time I will say yes, it's oversized, but for now it's staying the course. I'll keep updating Tivo
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I told you not to be stupid you moron!(Stern) Current Tank Info: 60 gal cube/20g tideline sump-mixed reef, Aquamaxx c-tech Ca Rx, Akula 160 skimmer, paxbellum N18, mitras LX7 lighting with T-5s, apex controller Last edited by reeftivo; 06/18/2013 at 01:11 PM. |
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06/18/2013, 01:41 PM | #14 |
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Thanks for the nice review. Considering this for my first skimmer.
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06/18/2013, 01:54 PM | #15 | |
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what size system? I would wait a little bit until more reviews are in. I liking it so far, but like everything in this hobby, things can change quick! I think after a week or so I'll know how consistant this skimmer will perform. Tivo
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I told you not to be stupid you moron!(Stern) Current Tank Info: 60 gal cube/20g tideline sump-mixed reef, Aquamaxx c-tech Ca Rx, Akula 160 skimmer, paxbellum N18, mitras LX7 lighting with T-5s, apex controller |
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06/18/2013, 03:54 PM | #16 |
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Thank you for the great review.....that slanted skimmer neck was baffling me until your pics
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Jim Current Tank Info: 120g Mixed Reef and 75g Freshwater |
06/18/2013, 04:18 PM | #17 | |
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I truely appreciate the kind words! I'm no Mojo but I'm trying my best to keep those interested informed. I thought the same as you when I first saw pictures of this skimmer. I was thinking "What the heck is up with that cup-it will never work!" Still early and my hopes are high for this skimmer. The price point is great for the build quality alone. If it skims great then I'd say it's a steal! Happy Reefing Tivo
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I told you not to be stupid you moron!(Stern) Current Tank Info: 60 gal cube/20g tideline sump-mixed reef, Aquamaxx c-tech Ca Rx, Akula 160 skimmer, paxbellum N18, mitras LX7 lighting with T-5s, apex controller |
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06/18/2013, 06:09 PM | #18 |
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Thanks for the review and pics. I'm considering switching skimmers to this one. However it might be undersized for my system. I have about 90 gallons total. I will stocking toward the heavy side this summer. I may have to wait for the co-2 but the specs make it seems oversized for me.
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06/18/2013, 07:05 PM | #19 | |
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Excellent review. I am looking forward to more updates.
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Beware of recommendations by those who don't actually use their recommendation!! The search function actually works quite well!! Tanks:Planet Aquarium 150g LPS, Planet Aquarium 90g Softie |
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06/19/2013, 07:28 AM | #20 |
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Skimmer is bedding in nicley. I fed last night before lights out and just woke up to this. So far it seems like it will be a great Skimmer. It pulls slow and consistent on my light bio load but will skim hard when it needs to.
http://www.reefcentral.com/forums/at...1&d=1371648144
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I told you not to be stupid you moron!(Stern) Current Tank Info: 60 gal cube/20g tideline sump-mixed reef, Aquamaxx c-tech Ca Rx, Akula 160 skimmer, paxbellum N18, mitras LX7 lighting with T-5s, apex controller |
06/19/2013, 08:45 AM | #21 |
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a note about the standpipe that I'm not liking;
when I turn the standpipe to adjust the level it gets snug for a couple rotations, then it's a little looser for a couple more. It doesn't fall out of adjustment but could be an issue for others if they receive units that are looser. I think if an o-ring was used or they cut the hole diameter a little smaller it would obviously be tighter and a non issue. The standpipe doesn't completely unscrew. It will unscrew until it hits the lip at the end. If mine gets looser I will unscrew it as much as I can and wrap some teflon tape around the outside of the standpipe, then screw it back down to snug it up. If I could completely unscrew the standpipe I would put teflon tape around the threads on the insert. Right now it hasn't been an issue but I thought I'd throw it out there. heres a pick showing where the issue could be
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I told you not to be stupid you moron!(Stern) Current Tank Info: 60 gal cube/20g tideline sump-mixed reef, Aquamaxx c-tech Ca Rx, Akula 160 skimmer, paxbellum N18, mitras LX7 lighting with T-5s, apex controller |
06/19/2013, 10:32 AM | #22 |
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forgot I caught a picture of the belch last night around 20-30 minutes after feeding mysis/reefroids.
another think I really like about this skimmer is that it doesnt have walls like other under pump skimmers (i.e. diablo 160, skimz, warner marine etc.) which can impeed flow around the bottom in the chamber. The miniscule feet are a nice feature and circulation in the sump chamber is better than ever
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I told you not to be stupid you moron!(Stern) Current Tank Info: 60 gal cube/20g tideline sump-mixed reef, Aquamaxx c-tech Ca Rx, Akula 160 skimmer, paxbellum N18, mitras LX7 lighting with T-5s, apex controller |
06/19/2013, 12:41 PM | #23 |
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reeftivo - my DT is 75 gallon, sump is 55, total water volume is 105g. Under budget constraints (considering a sca) but would spend a little more. Thoughts? Thanks!
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06/19/2013, 01:55 PM | #24 |
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my thoughts are that ConeS CO-1 skimmer would easily handle that size system.
I believe the SCA (302?) comes with an atman 2500 pump which I would steer clear of. The skimmers seem to skim well but the atman reliability is poor. They are cheap pumps to replace but you have to take the rep and potantial hassle into consideration. If you're not comfortable yet with such a new skimmer (ConeS CO 1) then some other proven skimmers you may want to take a look at are. JNS/Aquamaxx cone 2 Seaside aquatics CS 1 Reefdynamics INS 100 RLSS 6 cone (fairly new but performs well) There are several more (more expensive & less expensive) but the above have pretty stellar reviews. Tivo
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I told you not to be stupid you moron!(Stern) Current Tank Info: 60 gal cube/20g tideline sump-mixed reef, Aquamaxx c-tech Ca Rx, Akula 160 skimmer, paxbellum N18, mitras LX7 lighting with T-5s, apex controller |
06/19/2013, 01:59 PM | #25 |
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the seaside aquatics would be the cheapest on the list and is powered by a sicce syncra psk600
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I told you not to be stupid you moron!(Stern) Current Tank Info: 60 gal cube/20g tideline sump-mixed reef, Aquamaxx c-tech Ca Rx, Akula 160 skimmer, paxbellum N18, mitras LX7 lighting with T-5s, apex controller |
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