Official Royal Exclusiv Dream Box Owners Thread.

[slief]

This thread is dedicated to Dream Box owners. Please post photos of your Dream Boxes and your display and a little detail about your system.

[Socaltoaz]

Love love love my Dreambox. Couple of photos to start the thread:

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/12/05/6db5cb70bc90b35811e05f54bd31283e.jpghttp://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/12/05/e921048166f6efbe0980971c0d59be7b.jpghttp://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/12/05/359e7b86d46d88bd3e669b83e908dc9d.jpghttp://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/12/05/5d92c7f4e19e8458c1bb1de2a6131548.jpghttp://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/12/05/e7645a2c608b9499ac58729f67bf5e5f.jpghttp://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/12/05/503fb9c603995547ce10b237cffc01a2.jpg

[Socaltoaz]

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/12/05/79ba5e75580327dc616a7959ffa109c5.jpghttp://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/12/05/0debbc38a1711f943297f09020872e0a.jpghttp://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/12/05/576543b7a2ef435a4f3d3b0d9cec3133.jpghttp://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/12/05/f9c21493a122afe52afae49f3d53d860.jpg

[Socaltoaz]

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/12/05/7bb840ace2ce31336fa302d290000b0f.jpghttp://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/12/05/a251d2ffe40178640401d3f47457a4d7.jpghttp://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/12/05/730884c6d127f5de50a538d5fb3ae12b.jpghttp://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/12/05/1d04c110658a02d023e5cbac25abccf4.jpghttp://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/12/05/4a05f4365d1b40ec02b11ef14d63d84e.jpg


At first I thought the lights were a gimmick but we use them to communicate the status of the tank. Red means the fish have not been fed. Purple means first feeding done. Green means last feeding done. Very helpful do me or my kids don't over feed the fish.

[alin2]

My Dreambox and RE Supermarin 200 are the most impressive pieces of equipment in my system.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v719/alin2/Mobile%20Uploads/64A551A0-6B5C-441C-9C16-4FB37FE2288D_zpssocahsik.jpg

The craftsmanship is outstanding and functionality well thought out. I did a huge amount of due diligence on the equipment for my reboot since I experienced a tank disaster with my previous tank. BY FAR, the RE Dreambox was a no brainer.

[ReefClownMIA]

Is that the Exclusively Royals room, since it has a Thrown... ? :P

[alin2]

Is that the Exclusively Royals room, since it has a Thrown... ? :P

Lol...I've had more comments about the toilet than the Dreambox. :spin2:

I had to keep the toilet since my it's the only one in the finished basement and we spend a lot of time down there. :)

[alin2]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v719/alin2/Mobile%20Uploads/9BAA648D-06ED-40B8-B5A5-C7EE23C98B3C_zpss7lurhlt.jpg

Here's a more recent pic of it up and running with the skimmer...and sans throne. ;)

[danrobberg]

Been waiting for this thread!!! How high do you guys keep the water in your return chamber?

[danrobberg]

Before system got wet

[danrobberg]

I was super nervous about dripping pic cement on the dreambox so I covered it with towels and glad I did. Not a mark on it.

[C.Eymann]

so jelly of anyone who sports a dreambox, this thread will cause me to drool for sure.
superior German craftsmanship always makes me drool.
:love2:

[alin2]

Been waiting for this thread!!! How high do you guys keep the water in your return chamber?

About 2-3 cm above the RD return pump. It's low enough so that if the RD3 stops the sump will not overflow.

[Shredded]

Hi All,
So, here is mine. It is still sitting in Germany, crated, ready to go, just waiting on a shipping estimate (actually duties and taxes) before it can be put on a plane to head this way. Scott asked if I would share some of my pics even tho it has not arrived yet.

335786

335787

335788

335789

335790

[alin2]

Quick ?

Despite the narrow "degassing" chamber right before the return pump chamber and after the skimmer/reactor section, I still get quite a few micro bubbles getting into the return pump chamber and, of course, pumped into the display. This is also partly due to my refugium outlet exiting into the "degassing" chamber.

Is there a foam insert made for the degassing chamber to eliminate micro bubbles?

[slief]

Quick ?

Despite the narrow "degassing" chamber right before the return pump chamber and after the skimmer/reactor section, I still get quite a few micro bubbles getting into the return pump chamber and, of course, pumped into the display. This is also partly due to my refugium outlet exiting into the "degassing" chamber.

Is there a foam insert made for the degassing chamber to eliminate micro bubbles?

Quick ?

Despite the narrow "degassing" chamber right before the return pump chamber and after the skimmer/reactor section, I still get quite a few micro bubbles getting into the return pump chamber and, of course, pumped into the display. This is also partly due to my refugium outlet exiting into the "degassing" chamber.

Is there a foam insert made for the degassing chamber to eliminate micro bubbles?

I am just kind of stabbing in the dark here since I can't see the inside of the sump and the refugium drain. In looking at the picture, it looks like the water level in the return section is a bit low. Is it possible that the micro bubbles are boing caused by the return pump creating a vortex and sucking air from the surface? Regading the refugium drain, it's a shame you can't move that line over to the next chamber where the skimmer is. Is that line extended below the waters surface? If that is the cause of the micro bubbles and its extending below the waters suface, one thing you could do is take a piece of 1.5" or 2" or even larger pvc pipe with a cap on the bottom and place it under the refugium drain line so that the drain line from the refugium extends down into the pipe. The water would then enter into the larger diameter PVC pipe and overflow out of it This would serve as a bubble trap and allow the micro bubbles to escape at the waters surface instead of being drawn into the return pump. A small acyrlic box where that the refugium line could extend down into that serves as a weir would be another option.

Another option would be to get a round foam piece like this one below and extend the refugium drain line into the foam. That should help supress the micro bubbles as well.
http://www.marinedepot.com/Outlet_foam_for_ASM_Protein_Skimmers_Replacement_Parts_for_ASM_Protein_Skimmers-ASM_Protein_Skimmers-AG1541-FIPSRPAP-vi.html

You could always get a cut to fit foam block like the one below and cut a piece to go between the drain and the return pump but I am not a fan of foam in the sump as its another maintenance item.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Filter-Bio-Sponge-17-8-x17-8-x3-15-Media-Block-Foam-pads-Biochemical-Sponge-bio/252100129397?_

[Shredded]

I got my shipping, duty and taxes today. I may need to sell my first born. :-) Hopedully can ship early next week. Cannot wait to see it.

[alin2]

I am just kind of stabbing in the dark here since I can't see the inside of the sump and the refugium drain. In looking at the picture, it looks like the water level in the return section is a bit low. Is it possible that the micro bubbles are boing caused by the return pump creating a vortex and sucking air from the surface? Regading the refugium drain, it's a shame you can't move that line over to the next chamber where the skimmer is. Is that line extended below the waters surface? If that is the cause of the micro bubbles and its extending below the waters suface, one thing you could do is take a piece of 1.5" or 2" or even larger pvc pipe with a cap on the bottom and place it under the refugium drain line so that the drain line from the refugium extends down into the pipe. The water would then enter into the larger diameter PVC pipe and overflow out of it This would serve as a bubble trap and allow the micro bubbles to escape at the waters surface instead of being drawn into the return pump. A small acyrlic box where that the refugium line could extend down into that serves as a weir would be another option.

Another option would be to get a round foam piece like this one below and extend the refugium drain line into the foam. That should help supress the micro bubbles as well.
http://www.marinedepot.com/Outlet_foam_for_ASM_Protein_Skimmers_Replacement_Parts_for_ASM_Protein_Skimmers-ASM_Protein_Skimmers-AG1541-FIPSRPAP-vi.html

You could always get a cut to fit foam block like the one below and cut a piece to go between the drain and the return pump but I am not a fan of foam in the sump as its another maintenance item.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Filter-Bio-Sponge-17-8-x17-8-x3-15-Media-Block-Foam-pads-Biochemical-Sponge-bio/252100129397?_

The return pump chamber is a little low, but it can't go that much higher to avoid the sump overflowing when the return pump goes off. But, even at that level there is no vortex with the pump at 74 watts.

I wanted to avoid having the refugium drain into the skimmer section to help avoid the pods and small fauna getting sucked into the skimmer and to go to the display as a ancillary food source. Of course, right now I have the RE foam around the slot tube on the RD3 return pump to avoid micro bubbles which defeats that purpose anyways. I wanted to avoid keeping that foam on the slot tube as another thing I have to change for maintenance.

I saw a foam insert cut specifically for the degassing chamber on the German RE website and thought if that was available and relatively inexpensive, it would be easier to change that out frequently.

[slief]

The return pump chamber is a little low, but it can't go that much higher to avoid the sump overflowing when the return pump goes off. But, even at that level there is no vortex with the pump at 74 watts.

I wanted to avoid having the refugium drain into the skimmer section to help avoid the pods and small fauna getting sucked into the skimmer and to go to the display as a ancillary food source. Of course, right now I have the RE foam around the slot tube on the RD3 return pump to avoid micro bubbles which defeats that purpose anyways. I wanted to avoid keeping that foam on the slot tube as another thing I have to change for maintenance.

I saw a foam insert cut specifically for the degassing chamber on the German RE website and thought if that was available and relatively inexpensive, it would be easier to change that out frequently.

We don't have that foam in the US. While it is reasonably cheap and we could probably include a piece with the next shipment, you could be waiting a month for it to arrive as I don't yet have an ETA on that shipment.


I did some searching and found some similar foam material that is cheap and domestic but the first thing I would try is some filter floss to make sure it will solve the issue. This assuming I were going to pursue the foam route. My concern would be that the foam would inhibit larger pods from making it into the pump and being distributed back into the display. Still, I would probably create a small bubble trap for the refugium drain like the PCV solution I mentioned or a small acrylic box for the refugium drain to enter and overflow from. That or I would experiment with a valve on that drain line to slow the flow down slightly so that the drain pipe is flooded and doesn't have a bunch of air in it. I'd add a float switch to the refugium so that if the drain backed up and the levei in the fuge rose, the refugium pump would be shut and an alarm notification from my controller would be sent out.
Here are some options if you wanted to go that route.

Here are some more foam options for you.
http://www.amazon.com/Dimart-XY-1038-Aquarium-Reusable-Biochemical/dp/B0182443T4/


http://www.amazon.com/Biochemical-Cotton-Filter-Sponge-Aquarium/dp/B015XB09LA

http://www.amazon.com/2x32x12cm-Biochemical-Cotton-Filter-Aquarium/dp/B00SLLYNV2

[danrobberg]

Hhttp://i809.photobucket.com/albums/zz12/danrobberg/Mobile%20Uploads/2015-12/99829A8E-74EF-42EF-86D7-578B55DAE9BE_zpslczzwbep.jpg (http://s809.photobucket.com/user/danrobberg/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2015-12/99829A8E-74EF-42EF-86D7-578B55DAE9BE_zpslczzwbep.jpg.html)ere are some better pics of my setup
http://i809.photobucket.com/albums/zz12/danrobberg/Mobile%20Uploads/2015-12/217E1904-002B-4F14-866D-2B0CD018D43C_zpsqh8bntoo.jpg (http://s809.photobucket.com/user/danrobberg/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2015-12/217E1904-002B-4F14-866D-2B0CD018D43C_zpsqh8bntoo.jpg.html)
http://i809.photobucket.com/albums/zz12/danrobberg/Mobile%20Uploads/2015-12/3A449DBA-D571-4B39-9C52-63F1AA4B895A_zpsofu6srs6.jpg (http://s809.photobucket.com/user/danrobberg/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2015-12/3A449DBA-D571-4B39-9C52-63F1AA4B895A_zpsofu6srs6.jpg.html)

[ClownsRCoo]

I will be in the club in about 6 more weeks. Just waiting for it to be finished and shipped.

[Shredded]

What did you go with? Details! Good luck with shipping. Still waiting on mine. Was bumped from its first flight, but now supposedly, has landed on Christmas Eve in Houston. Trying to get a status on the shipment from the forwarder but could not get a response. I thought maybe he was off for the holidays and so I emailed the import manager. His response, not to me, but to subordinate, was, please advise him on the status. So no answers yet. I am sure it will eventually get here. Just disappointed. So talk, tell me what you got.

[ClownsRCoo]

New build is a custom 180g tank. Sump is the 100cm x 40cm x 35cm with double cone 200 skimmer w/rd3 speedy.

[Klaus Jansen]

After strong programming, the Closed Loops Dreamboxes are ready. First Pics of our newest Development ....

The CL-Dreamboxes are fit for the new RD3-Speedy-230 Watt/ 20.000 L/h.

We want offered a complet-Set, include all Pumps, Connectors and Mediafilter..

For a Setprice, please ask Slief :beer:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v660/royal-exclusiv/DSC09409_zps3tswiagl.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/royal-exclusiv/media/DSC09409_zps3tswiagl.jpg.html)


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v660/royal-exclusiv/DSC09405_zpsbddwa8eb.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/royal-exclusiv/media/DSC09405_zpsbddwa8eb.jpg.html)


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v660/royal-exclusiv/DSC09404_zpsy3mybuzs.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/royal-exclusiv/media/DSC09404_zpsy3mybuzs.jpg.html)

best regards .. Klaus

[Klaus Jansen]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v660/royal-exclusiv/DSC09407_zpskjozj3yo.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/royal-exclusiv/media/DSC09407_zpskjozj3yo.jpg.html)

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v660/royal-exclusiv/DSC09410_zpscvcjx8wi.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/royal-exclusiv/media/DSC09410_zpscvcjx8wi.jpg.html)

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v660/royal-exclusiv/DSC09411_zps43ed8y92.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/royal-exclusiv/media/DSC09411_zps43ed8y92.jpg.html)

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v660/royal-exclusiv/DSC09412_zps1lp0i0yd.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/royal-exclusiv/media/DSC09412_zps1lp0i0yd.jpg.html)

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v660/royal-exclusiv/DSC09414_zpscoalolxx.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/royal-exclusiv/media/DSC09414_zpscoalolxx.jpg.html)

[Klaus Jansen]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v660/royal-exclusiv/DSC09415_zps6fbn7ama.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/royal-exclusiv/media/DSC09415_zps6fbn7ama.jpg.html)

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v660/royal-exclusiv/DSC09416_zpstnoh0lpd.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/royal-exclusiv/media/DSC09416_zpstnoh0lpd.jpg.html)

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v660/royal-exclusiv/DSC09418_zpsct9g3u5s.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/royal-exclusiv/media/DSC09418_zpsct9g3u5s.jpg.html)

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v660/royal-exclusiv/DSC09419_zpsutrry0vv.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/royal-exclusiv/media/DSC09419_zpsutrry0vv.jpg.html)

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v660/royal-exclusiv/DSC09420_zpsyjdjeywc.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/royal-exclusiv/media/DSC09420_zpsyjdjeywc.jpg.html)

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v660/royal-exclusiv/DSC09422_zpsao15te8w.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/royal-exclusiv/media/DSC09422_zpsao15te8w.jpg.html)

[Klaus Jansen]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v660/royal-exclusiv/DSC09425_zpscufmfhwk.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/royal-exclusiv/media/DSC09425_zpscufmfhwk.jpg.html)

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v660/royal-exclusiv/DSC09426_zpseo7txjdk.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/royal-exclusiv/media/DSC09426_zpseo7txjdk.jpg.html)

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v660/royal-exclusiv/DSC09428_zpsplwcqp3f.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/royal-exclusiv/media/DSC09428_zpsplwcqp3f.jpg.html)

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v660/royal-exclusiv/DSC09432_zpsmydmqhtv.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/royal-exclusiv/media/DSC09432_zpsmydmqhtv.jpg.html)

[biecacka]

:D:D
WOW is all I can say. Those are very nice!!! Any chance we can or I can get the details on them? Just curious...how they operate? Are those media reactors in it fed off the pump? What does the remote do?

Thanks,
Corey

[slief]

:D:D
WOW is all I can say. Those are very nice!!! Any chance we can or I can get the details on them? Just curious...how they operate? Are those media reactors in it fed off the pump? What does the remote do?

Thanks,
Corey

This is a new dream box design that incorperates the closed loop pumps into the sump. The media reactors are fed off the return pump which in this case is an RD3 230 watt pump. This new sump has a seperate pair of RD3 230's that are inside the sump which are for 2 seperate closed loops for the display. Those RD3 230's can be substituted for other RD3 pumps as well for those that don't need that much power for their closed loop. The inlets and outlets for those closed loop pumps are the larger red pipes sticking out of the top of the sump. That can be cut to length and can include metric or imperial unions on the top of the sump for easy adaptation to an existing system. Typically people like myself who run closed loops have to allow for space below the tank or in their fish room for the separate external closed loop pumps. This keeps everything within the sump minimizing the space required for a more complex system.

The remote is to control the in sump LED lighting and allows you to change the color and brightness of the lighting inside the sump and also set it to stay as one color or rotate colors automatically. There are all kinds of different options for how the colors change or transition. The LED lights are RGB and allow for dozens of different color schemes too including white, blue, red, green, orange, pink etc as well as variations of those colors. All of which are controlled via the hand held remote. The LED sump lighting is a standard option for all dream boxes.

[Klaus Jansen]

thanks Scott, for the perfect declaration .... you now, my english language is limited ...:rolleyes:

This CL-Sumps are aviable in January 2016

best regards .. Klaus

[Shredded]

OK guys, Mine has arrived. Sorry to distract from the new closed loop systems. It arrived by truck this morning and they said they would not deliver it until Monday. Forget that, it is less then 2 miles from my office. My son is picking me up in 30 minutes in his pickup to go get it. Finally!!! :bounce2:

[ClownsRCoo]

Niceeee!!!

[slief]

thanks Scott, for the perfect declaration .... you now, my english language is limited ...:rolleyes:

This CL-Sumps are aviable in January 2016

best regards .. Klaus




I hat für Sie ! :thumbsup:


OK guys, Mine has arrived. Sorry to distract from the new closed loop systems. It arrived by truck this morning and they said they would not deliver it until Monday. Forget that, it is less then 2 miles from my office. My son is picking me up in 30 minutes in his pickup to go get it. Finally!!! :bounce2:

Sweet!! I'm sure you are like a kid at XMAS time! Make sure you post some pictures here and on our Facebook page of you unwrapping it and out of the crate.

[Shredded]

OK, it is home in the garage waiting for me. No time to fully unwrap it but customs beat me to some of it. I am sure the water top off box left Germany in a box but it no longer was in one. It has cuts in the top and both sides from the box knife they used to slice it open with. The skimmer box had been sliced open but it looks undamaged. I cannot tell if the remaining pieces have been tampered with. Incompetence makes me mad. I guess we are training monkeys and giving them box knives for customs agents. Hopefully he was satisfied with just damaging the water top off box and stopped there. I will do a video tonight as I unbox the rest. I posted some of the pics. Klaus, can these be sanded out and buffed since its ABS?
Jeff

[slief]

OK, it is home in the garage waiting for me. No time to fully unwrap it but customs beat me to some of it. I am sure the water top off box left Germany in a box but it no longer was in one. It has cuts in the top and both sides from the box knife they used to slice it open with. The skimmer box had been sliced open but it looks undamaged. I cannot tell if the remaining pieces have been tampered with. Incompetence makes me mad. I guess we are training monkeys and giving them box knives for customs agents. Hopefully he was satisfied with just damaging the water top off box and stopped there. I will do a video tonight as I unbox the rest. I posted some of the pics. Klaus, can these be sanded out and buffed since its ABS?
Jeff

Got to love customs.. It's a shame they don't take more care when they handle things. You can certainly sand that out. I would do a test spot on the inside or back of the sump as it may change the sheen on the finish and be even more noticeable when you are finished. You could also try using a Scotch Brite pad or even some steel wool. Like I said, I would do a test in a spot that won't be visible first so you can figure out what will work best when it comes to matching the sheen of the material. It might be that using some 1200 grit wet dry sand paper would work too. I would just try to find a sanding method that matches the sheen of the material without having to use several steps.

[Shredded]

Hey Scott,
Yea it is going to need more then one step. These are deeper then the pictures can show. They will have to be sanded with a wet/dry 800 to remove the scratch and then work finer up to 2000 grit to remove the heavier sanding scratches, then buffed to a shine with a liquid compound to restore the shine. I have never worked with ABS before, only paint so I know the process but not sure what the best grits would be to use. At this time, from the look of the pallet (see first pic) I do not think they got down to the sump so hopefully it is unharmed. If you look at the left hand side of the pic, you can see the water top off box just under the plastic. I know that did not leave Germany unboxed. He cut it completely out of the box. If I sent this to the Florida facility, can they fix it?
Jeff

[slief]

Hey Scott,
Yea it is going to need more then one step. These are deeper then the pictures can show. They will have to be sanded with a wet/dry 800 to remove the scratch and then work finer up to 2000 grit to remove the heavier sanding scratches, then buffed to a shine with a liquid compound to restore the shine. I have never worked with ABS before, only paint so I know the process but not sure what the best grits would be to use. At this time, from the look of the pallet (see first pic) I do not think they got down to the sump so hopefully it is unharmed. If you look at the left hand side of the pic, you can see the water top off box just under the plastic. I know that did not leave Germany unboxed. He cut it completely out of the box. If I sent this to the Florida facility, can they fix it?
Jeff

We don't have anything at the Florida facility to remove scratches like that. If anything, I would contact a local acrylic supply place as they can likely polish it out for you.That or take a look at this thread I started here on acrylic scratch removal. The process will be the same for the PVC that the sumps and holding tanks are made out of although you may need to add the additional step of polishing with compound. That said, you pretty much treat it like clear coat safe car paint.

http://www.reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?t=2538092

[rvareef]

bummer Jeff!, how much was shipping and can you file a claim with customs?

[Shredded]

I could file a complaint with customs but I'm pretty sure they feel they are impervious to anything and can do whatever they want with impunity. Someone who takes a box knife and rips into something like this has no respect for anyone else's property and basically doesn't care. I'm sure they would just cover for him and nothing would come of it except a waste of my time. Shipping was 2300.00

[rvareef]

I have not had this happen before but with shipping over 2k I would call the customs superintendent, you should be able to file a claim and not just a complaint. Might be able to find what youre looking for here

https://help.cbp.gov/app/answers/detail/a_id/178/~/tort-claims---claim-for-property-damage-or-loss,-or-personal-injury,-or-death

[Socaltoaz]

The new closed loop dream box looks awesome! I love the mounts for the pump controllers. You have me wanting to buy a whole new sump for this. :)

[ReefClownMIA]

I could file a complaint with customs but I'm pretty sure they feel they are impervious to anything and can do whatever they want with impunity. Someone who takes a box knife and rips into something like this has no respect for anyone else's property and basically doesn't care. I'm sure they would just cover for him and nothing would come of it except a waste of my time. Shipping was 2300.00

Jeff,
I'm very sorry to hear about the issues with Customs. Our most recent shipment to Fort Myers was 6 pallets, customs cut/ripped through 6 layers of cardboard all the way down through the fabric and plastic bag the skimmers are in. I now have a skimmer in inventory that is brand new w/out a resale box... Luckily they just barely missed the body of the skimmer.

I'll talk to Klaus & Torsten on Monday to see what our options are, please send me some high quality pictures of the packaging and damage via email. Info@royalexclusiv.com


Thanks,
Marco

[UWUALineman]

Shredded, sorry to see this. I know it doesn't help the matter but it's a terrible shame to see you spend an insane amount of money on something to have it completely disrespected by someone with no regard. Good luck if you pursue damages.
These sumps are beautiful, but the one thing that blows me away over everything else is the cord organizers. Maybe I haven't paid much attention elsewhere, but that is brilliant and effective.

[Shredded]

Happy New Years all! OK, so, I have a couple of scratches on the water top off tank... I am thru having my temper tantrum. I got up this morning and videoed the un boxing of the rest of the shipment. There is no other damage. They apparently stopped after unboxing the water tank and slicing open the skimmer. It could have been worse and I have high hopes that my local plastics company (built my first acrylic tank for me) can easily sand them out and buff it back to a high polish. Thankfully the ABS is not textured.
Anyway, here are some pics. Let me just say, I know everyone says this but the quality of the construction is unbelievable. I absolutely could not be more pleased. Everything was packaged very well and had someone not chosen to unpackage it, everything would have arrived perfectly. The fit and finish of all of the parts is perfect. I only wish that I could set it up right now. We start construction on the house next month so I have to be patient.

[Shredded]

and some more.

[Shredded]

One more.

[ClownsRCoo]

Man I can't wait to get mine!

[ClownsRCoo]

I have been emailing trying to make sure my payment was received and production has been started on my sump. Can someone from RE please PM me for my details and tell me if you have started building my sump yet or not? I have emailed 3 times with no responses.

[slief]

I have been emailing trying to make sure my payment was received and production has been started on my sump. Can someone from RE please PM me for my details and tell me if you have started building my sump yet or not? I have emailed 3 times with no responses.

When did you send the payment? Not sure when you started emailing to follow up but the head office in Germany has been shut down for the holiday since just before Xmas. They closed down from the week of Christmas through New Years and reopen this Monday. I know Torsten has been away from his email since then. They take their vacation time seriously in Germany unlike us in the states. :thumbsup:

They get back first of this next week and I would expect you will hear back Monday if not Tuesday. If you don't hear back from Torsten by Tuesday morning after he has a chance to catch up, send me a PM and I will set some fires.

[biecacka]

Man I want one of these so bad!!

Corey

[ClownsRCoo]

Slief I forgot to follow up with you but all is good and sump was being built. They even sent me some pics of it and that's when I noticed they built the inverted option and I ordered a regular one.

I'm really glad I asked for pictures but kinda bummed that they have to start all over now. I get my tank next Wednesday and it's making me nervous that this will come out error free too. They don't provide pics for their tanks so I just have to hope it was all double checked. Hopefully this doesn't put me too much further out with the sump.

[ClownsRCoo]

For those that already gotten a dreambox in the past how long after RE notified you of the shipment did it arrive and ready to be picked up?

[Shredded]

For those that already gotten a dreambox in the past how long after RE notified you of the shipment did it arrive and ready to be picked up?

Well... Don't be in a hurry. :rollface:
It can take a while and mine was over the holidays so maybe mine is not a good example. Basic construction, cutting and gluing the parts and then I think only Klaus does all the welding so he is busy, and then once complete, packing and palletizing, then getting the quote for shipping and customs took a couple weeks.... Then after shipping it got bumped off a flight... I think I ordered and made my down payment in October and it arrived December 31st. I think maybe 10 weeks.

[ClownsRCoo]

I'm talking after they have finished production and shipped it out. Just interested in shipping time.

[Shredded]

Oh, my bad, should have read more carefully. Still not a good example. Done before thanksgiving, I was out of town, then I wasted a week and a half thinking I could do better (you can't), then two weeks to get a quote on shipping, forwarding, customs and duties and taxes. Then it got bumped from a flight, so about 4 weeks. I'd say that would not be normal. I'd say probably 10 days to two weeks is a good bet.

[Shredded]

@ClownsRCoo... let's see some pics.

[ClownsRCoo]

Well here is the backwards dreambox that i am not sure if I'm going to take or not.

http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h182/cshunka/F56A4766-3CFE-44AB-8127-598EC9C0586F_zpsaadenggk.jpg (http://s64.photobucket.com/user/cshunka/media/F56A4766-3CFE-44AB-8127-598EC9C0586F_zpsaadenggk.jpg.html)
http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h182/cshunka/3656CDAF-789B-407F-BF96-DC87062717FC_zpsbrm7bv0n.jpg (http://s64.photobucket.com/user/cshunka/media/3656CDAF-789B-407F-BF96-DC87062717FC_zpsbrm7bv0n.jpg.html)
http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h182/cshunka/FF0F55A5-C2F4-4ECD-A905-72234E11C8D1_zpspqymbwio.jpg (http://s64.photobucket.com/user/cshunka/media/FF0F55A5-C2F4-4ECD-A905-72234E11C8D1_zpspqymbwio.jpg.html)
http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h182/cshunka/EF0A599D-B55C-418A-89D5-6473A43AEF5E_zpsnfdbhdqe.jpg (http://s64.photobucket.com/user/cshunka/media/EF0A599D-B55C-418A-89D5-6473A43AEF5E_zpsnfdbhdqe.jpg.html)

[ClownsRCoo]

Will eventually have the red seams. It's basically stock I just had him add a few more slits in the rim for extra cords for my heaters and dosing lines. I'm loving the cord holders they just started doing. This thing is going to be so sleek and organized when it's all set up. Can't wait.

I'm starting to think I won't even skin my stand. This will be just as much of a work of art as my tank will, why hide that. I'm getting my metal stand coated today and chose to go with red to stick with the color scheme. Piping will be red as well so the entire stand and equipment should be white and red. I've got the vertex reactors, white kore 5th doser, etc.

[Shredded]

We have made the exact same choices. I went with white powder coating on a steel stand with red accents. You will not see mine as it will be in the tank room so no need to skin it. I am however going to use white polypropylene sheets for the back and sides for mounting equipment. Red 1", 1-1/4", and 1-1/2" PVC with white PVC fittings. Also, if I need any flexible tubing, I have a roll of Primochill's Bloodshed Red flexible tubing. I also chose Vertex reactors (picked up the Vertex Calcium reactor during BRS's black Friday sale for 350.00) and have ordered the white Kore 5th doser to handle dozing, water top off and water changes with the optional pumps.

[Shredded]

I guess really, left to right or right to left doesn't really matter. Either way, your inputs and outputs shouldn't be affected, same distance, just a different direction.

[ClownsRCoo]

My refugium is set up to specifically be on the right and I want it right there fed from the return pump and flowing back into return section of sump. If I use this sump the return section now is clear across the sump

[ClownsRCoo]

Lol dang shredded we are definately thinking alike. Do you have a build thread going so I can check it out and get a glimpse of how yours is coming together?

I'm thinking I can maybe make the inverted sump work and save myself another 3-4 weeks of having them start over on the sump.

Where are you getting those polypropylene sheets from?

[ClownsRCoo]

Well this sucks. They offered me a $64 discount if I took the inverted one they made by mistake. A whole 3% discount. I've been waiting 4 weeks and they screwed it up and the only person I would be doing a favor by taking it would be them and that's what I get offered? That's pretty weak. Then I'm told it's going to be another 5-6 weeks before I can get the new one built. Again, I can't see how that thing takes more than a week to build from start to finish. 1 day on the cnc cutting all the panels. One day to glue together and let dry over night, next day to apply the red seams. Another for dry time. One for fittings install. Then you package it up and ship.

[slief]

Well this sucks. They offered me a $64 discount if I took the inverted one they made by mistake. A whole 3% discount. I've been waiting 4 weeks and they screwed it up and the only person I would be doing a favor by taking it would be them and that's what I get offered? That's pretty weak. Then I'm told it's going to be another 5-6 weeks before I can get the new one built. Again, I can't see how that thing takes more than a week to build from start to finish. 1 day on the cnc cutting all the panels. One day to glue together and let dry over night, next day to apply the red seams. Another for dry time. One for fittings install. Then you package it up and ship.

The time is the due to the other sumps on the production line at any given time. They typically have several on the line at a time and they have to do setup of the CNC programming too because each sump is typically different in terms of fittings and what not. Plus the CNC machines get setup for different sized sumps so they cut them in batches of similar size units.

The welding process is very time consuming. These aren't glued like typical acrylic. You glue one panel and let it set for 24 hours. Then glue another panel and let it sit again and repeat. Then they are welded and it's done one panel at a time.

Regarding the discount, my guess is that your sump would not sit for long there as they always have a substantial backlog of dreamboxes. I just sent you a PM.

[Shredded]

I haven't started the build thread yet. I sign the contract on the house in two weeks, have design meetings in February and break ground in March. At that point I wanted to start a build thread and get ideas. The tank room will not be big. Room for the tank, two feet behind the tank to big double doors. Raised floor with a drain and about 5 x 4 feet of open space to the left of the tank for work room. small sink, salt water mixing station, etc.
Polypropylene Sheets are from Eplastics.com. 0.250 x 48 x 72 - 88.92
I was kind of going to do the same thing, in reverse. RE has a refugium in stock in Florida. It just so happens the size matches my sump size but the outlet is plumbed on the right instead of the left. I thought I might move the top off tank to the right, put the refugium on the left and let a branch off of the overflow feed the refugium directly and then plumb the output into an extra input to the sump? Seems like a good place for it, but I guess my only question is if I was using this to cultivate pods, would any pods survive or even make it back to the main tank going thru the filter socks, then skimming, then possible UV exposure all the way to the return pump.

Well... like I said before, you can't be in a hurry. I think the line forms at the rear. lol If you get out of line you have to start over. But... If you are spending this kind of money, be sure you are happy and don't settle if you won't like it. They want you to be happy also.

[slief]

Polypropylene Sheets are from Eplastics.com. 0.250 x 48 x 72 - 88.92
I was kind of going to do the same thing, in reverse. RE has a refugium in stock in Florida. It just so happens the size matches my sump size but the outlet is plumbed on the right instead of the left. I thought I might move the top off tank to the right, put the refugium on the left and let a branch off of the overflow feed the refugium directly and then plumb the output into an extra input to the sump? Seems like a good place for it, but I guess my only question is if I was using this to cultivate pods, would any pods survive or even make it back to the main tank going thru the filter socks, then skimming, then possible UV exposure all the way to the return pump.

Well... like I said before, you can't be in a hurry. I think the line forms at the rear. lol If you get out of line you have to start over. But... If you are spending this kind of money, be sure you are happy and don't settle if you won't like it. They want you to be happy also.


The socks will trap the pods and the skimmer will also remove them. As such, you wouldn't want the refugium draining to the intake section or the skimmer section. It should ideally drain to any compartment after the skimmer compartment. UV exposure at rates of 90,000 µw/cm2 or higher won't hurt the pods. I run mine between 60,000 µw/cm2 and 70,000 µw/cm2 based on my flow rates although I do slow mine down at night when my RD3 closed loop slows way down for power savings and lower flow when the lights are off. Mine is however on a closed loop and I am not worried about the impact from that on my pod populations.

[Shredded]

The socks will trap the pods and the skimmer will also remove them. As such, you wouldn't want the refugium draining to the intake section or the skimmer section. It should ideally drain to any compartment after the skimmer compartment. UV exposure at rates of 90,000 µw/cm2 or higher won't hurt the pods. I run mine between 60,000 µw/cm2 and 70,000 µw/cm2 based on my flow rates although I do slow mine down at night when my RD3 closed loop slows way down for power savings and lower flow when the lights are off. Mine is however on a closed loop and I am not worried about the impact from that on my pod populations.

Thanks Scott! I guess that answers that. Will you be getting more stock in Florida on the refugiums? I will just wait for one plumbed on the left.

[slief]

Thanks Scott! I guess that answers that. Will you be getting more stock in Florida on the refugiums? I will just wait for one plumbed on the left.

I am not sure if there will be any more refugiums with the next container shipment. Truth is that since nobody knows we had them, they don't sell well.

[ClownsRCoo]

I went on a rant on here when I had an issue with RE and I feel that's it's only fair to give them props for stepping up and helping to solve it. There was never any question that they would make me a new sump exactly how I ordered it, my main concern was having the production time start all over. I will respect the fact that they probably would not like me posting what they offered me as a solution because I wouldn't want it to be expected from them but I will say that they have given me 2 options to choose from and either one would make me more than happy. Thanks also to Slief on here for helping and getting involved. If you ever have any issues with anything with RE I would start with him. Very friendly and helpful.

[biecacka]

Well these are ready in January....would be a great birthday present to myself this January. :D
Question thou, so the return lines come in on one side of the sump into the filter socks, from there they overflow into another set of socks followed by another set. Each getting smaller in micron ratings right. Then to the skimmer and so forth?

Corey

[Shredded]

Hi Corey,
Not sure whom you were asking, but the short answer is yes, and does depend on the model and how many levels of filter socks you have.

[biecacka]

Was just a general question to anyone really. That's a pretty cool concept, once again innovators in the game!

Corey

[keez]

Just about to join the family! So i'm just about to finalize the order and I'm still a little confused as to what is going to be included in the dreambox. Here is what I have. I already have the return pump. Is there anything obvious that I'm missing? Thanks!
Matt

1 x dreambox-filter system size M(D-175-60) normal version

1 x red welds

1 x dreambox - milled cover suitable for skimmer Bubble King Superma 5

2 x dreambox - cable holder complete (D-K-1000) white assembly ex fa

1 x dreambox - LED lighting complete size M (D-175-x)

2 x dreambox special electrode-holder / probe holder/ GHL sensor-hol

1 x Bubble king Supermarin 300+RD3 Speedy (93/RD3/1)110V/60Hz

1 x dreambox - Silencer filter socks - inlay (D-F-1)

[slief]

Just about to join the family! So i'm just about to finalize the order and I'm still a little confused as to what is going to be included in the dreambox. Here is what I have. I already have the return pump. Is there anything obvious that I'm missing? Thanks!
Matt

1 x dreambox-filter system size M(D-175-60) normal version

1 x red welds

1 x dreambox - milled cover suitable for skimmer Bubble King Superma 5

2 x dreambox - cable holder complete (D-K-1000) white assembly ex fa

1 x dreambox - LED lighting complete size M (D-175-x)

2 x dreambox special electrode-holder / probe holder/ GHL sensor-hol

1 x Bubble king Supermarin 300+RD3 Speedy (93/RD3/1)110V/60Hz

1 x dreambox - Silencer filter socks - inlay (D-F-1)

Congrats! The one thing I don't see are the RD3 controller mounts. They attach to the back of the sump and provide a place to mount the RD3 controllers for things like your skimmer, return pump etc. What size display is this going on?

[keez]

OK Great, thanks for the reassurance. I'm planning to just mount the controllers to the wall which the sump will be adjacent to, do you recommend against this?

It's for a 600gallon display.

Matt

[slief]

OK Great, thanks for the reassurance. I'm planning to just mount the controllers to the wall which the sump will be adjacent to, do you recommend against this?

It's for a 600gallon display.

Matt

You can mount them where ever you want and if it's the wall you want to mount them on, that will work fine. I just didn't know if you were overlooking that one. The controller mounts work well in keeping the controllers close to the sump so you don't have a mess of wires running up the walls. The provide for a real clean look but every installation is different. I happen to like the controller mounts my self but others don't.

[ClownsRCoo]

Slief so those controller mounts are an add-on feature? I thought the dreambox comes with then if you ordered equipment that has a RD3 controller.

[slief]

Slief so those controller mounts are an add-on feature? I thought the dreambox comes with then if you ordered equipment that has a RD3 controller.

I would double check that with Torsten. I thought they were an add on but could be wrong. I will inquire myself for my own piece of mind.

[Shredded]

2 of my controller holders were included, 1 for the return and 1 for the skimmer but when I ordered mine, I specified, "set up like set 5C with the following changes". That was the best way that if figured I would get it exactly how I wanted it and I'm sure they were included in the set price. Now, when I added the additional return pump, the controller holder was an additional 37.05 EUR so I am guessing they are optional and extra.

[ClownsRCoo]

Just confirmed with RE and they are add ons. At least if they are if you don't buy the complete system.

So I was given some pics again and I'm pretty much back to where they were when I got my first set of pics. Should be getting close now.

http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h182/cshunka/88C506BE-159D-4D65-A360-5F541236081C_zpsogx3s4yb.jpg (http://s64.photobucket.com/user/cshunka/media/88C506BE-159D-4D65-A360-5F541236081C_zpsogx3s4yb.jpg.html)
http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h182/cshunka/1526507D-75D9-4A0A-92BC-9BEBE20D47F7_zpsq6to4244.jpg (http://s64.photobucket.com/user/cshunka/media/1526507D-75D9-4A0A-92BC-9BEBE20D47F7_zpsq6to4244.jpg.html)
http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h182/cshunka/18EBD161-840B-4C36-A894-5A6422872916_zpsirciao5b.jpg (http://s64.photobucket.com/user/cshunka/media/18EBD161-840B-4C36-A894-5A6422872916_zpsirciao5b.jpg.html)
http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h182/cshunka/C1BA83A6-FE24-451E-9975-DD8FDA4CB7C3_zpssagbrndb.jpg (http://s64.photobucket.com/user/cshunka/media/C1BA83A6-FE24-451E-9975-DD8FDA4CB7C3_zpssagbrndb.jpg.html)
http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h182/cshunka/5FC1A501-2525-47AD-9C32-A21E293F617F_zpsnal5ramp.jpg (http://s64.photobucket.com/user/cshunka/media/5FC1A501-2525-47AD-9C32-A21E293F617F_zpsnal5ramp.jpg.html)

The last few pics were just to show me they added the extra cord slits I wanted for my heater cords and other electronics.

[danrobberg]

ThAt looks like the same model as mine. You will be very happy. The cord holders don't seem like a big deal until you get everything set up. I am so glad I have them.

[ClownsRCoo]

Looks like it's shipping this week. Can't wait!

http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h182/cshunka/DDD2C405-60AA-4272-9B37-33BFF41C0B61_zpscdzfgrxx.jpg (http://s64.photobucket.com/user/cshunka/media/DDD2C405-60AA-4272-9B37-33BFF41C0B61_zpscdzfgrxx.jpg.html)

http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h182/cshunka/5C7EC8C6-8339-41FD-BC49-2BA90DBD0BC2_zpsme1lcmnp.jpg (http://s64.photobucket.com/user/cshunka/media/5C7EC8C6-8339-41FD-BC49-2BA90DBD0BC2_zpsme1lcmnp.jpg.html)

[ClownsRCoo]

This thing is going to look sick under the tank. I don't plan on even skinning the stand once it's up and running.

http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h182/cshunka/F0F987D8-98D8-460C-92E3-4781DA17F050_zps722nkevr.jpg (http://s64.photobucket.com/user/cshunka/media/F0F987D8-98D8-460C-92E3-4781DA17F050_zps722nkevr.jpg.html)

[biecacka]

That's going to be a great set up!! Can't wait to see it up and running.

Corey

[danrobberg]

That's going to look awesome user there. May I suggest using schedule 80 pipe or red pipe with white fittings. That would look great.

[ClownsRCoo]

That's exactly what I'm doing. Red PVC from BRS and white fittings.

[jasonssandiego]

I love the products but why should we kiss up to them. It has taken me 3 weeks to get a quote for a dream box and no response. Customers at this are waiting and they are busy at this time. Hire more help *** I'm done with Royal period. If u ask for money then act like it then. Scott I'm sorry just sick of it.

[slief]

I love the products but why should we kiss up to them. It has taken me 3 weeks to get a quote for a dream box and no response. Customers at this are waiting and they are busy at this time. Hire more help *** I'm done with Royal period. If u ask for money then act like it then. Scott I'm sorry just sick of it.

Sorry for your frustration. I can totally understand. They actually just hired three new people at the factory about 10 days ago. They been training them since then which is created a little bit of a backlog. Plus they had carnival that began last week and ended this Wednesday which is essentially a holiday there.

That said, PM me your last name. I'm assuming this was a quote that we were working up directly for you? I thought I saw a quote to you last week from Torsten in Germany. Maybe was for another Jason. I will be in front of my computer in an hour and a half or so & I will doublecheck but in the meantime PM me your last name so I can see if that coupling to you.

[slief]

I love the products but why should we kiss up to them. It has taken me 3 weeks to get a quote for a dream box and no response. Customers at this are waiting and they are busy at this time. Hire more help *** I'm done with Royal period. If u ask for money then act like it then. Scott I'm sorry just sick of it.

Jason,
I just went through all my emails and I don't have any contact from you that I am aware of unless the email name is something different. I just searched for "Jason" through my inbox. There is one other Jason but he got his quote a week or two ago. Who did you send this request for quote to? Was it sent through the international contact page or through us in the US at Royalexclusiv.com? I'd like to get to the bottom of this as I have never seen it take that long for a quote on a Dream Boxes or anything else.

[slief]

I love the products but why should we kiss up to them. It has taken me 3 weeks to get a quote for a dream box and no response. Customers at this are waiting and they are busy at this time. Hire more help *** I'm done with Royal period. If u ask for money then act like it then. Scott I'm sorry just sick of it.

If this is for Jason Sanchez, the quote was emailed early in the AM of Feb 9th at 12:52AM our time. I think the last questions needed for the quote were answered by you on Feb 1st at 5:20 PM and received by Germany on the Feb 2nd. They are 9 hours ahead of us. It took 5 business days there after to put the quote together. Things have been a bit backed up at the factory due to new hires being trained and most of that fell on Torsten who is the one responsible for putting the quotes together along with pulling the cad drawings to correspond with the quotes. Did you not receive the quotes in that email or am I mixing you up with another Jason?

[danrobberg]

Anyone having any luck keeping their dreambox clean. I seem to get a lot of detritus in mine. I have 800 and 400 micron nylon socks.

[slief]

Anyone having any luck keeping their dreambox clean. I seem to get a lot of detritus in mine. I have 800 and 400 micron nylon socks.

I would reduce the micron size. I run 200 micron felt socks in my sump. It's not a dreambox but it stays clean. The 400 and 800 micron socks will let too much through in terms of keeping detritus out of the sump. They will however keep the stray fish and snails out of the sump. Just not much of the detritus.

[danrobberg]

Thanks Scott. Do you know of anyone who sells felt socks that will fit a dreambox. They are metric so a 4 inch sock won't fit they need something like 3 3/4 inches. If not il just have to order some 200 micron nylon socks from Royal Exclusiv. I want a spare set anyway so when I rinse my socks I can just place the clean one right in. I'd ideally like to have at least 3 sets.

[alin2]

Thanks Scott. Do you know of anyone who sells felt socks that will fit a dreambox. They are metric so a 4 inch sock won't fit they need something like 3 3/4 inches. If not il just have to order some 200 micron nylon socks from Royal Exclusiv. I want a spare set anyway so when I rinse my socks I can just place the clean one right in. I'd ideally like to have at least 3 sets.

I use 300,200, and occasionally 100 micron socks in my DB. The RE ones are available from RE or Aquarium Specialty. However, the Biotek Marine brand nylon socks (AS house brand) also fits the DB and are much less expensive.

They are nylon and not felt. But, I think they work just as well and are pretty easy to clean.

[ClownsRCoo]

Well if anyone is going out for a quote for these things go ahead and expect the delivery to take 2-3x longer than they quote you. My dreambox has been "preparing to ship" now for 2 weeks. It's getting rediculous.

[slief]

Well if anyone is going out for a quote for these things go ahead and expect the delivery to take 2-3x longer than they quote you. My dreambox has been "preparing to ship" now for 2 weeks. It's getting rediculous.

I feel your pain. I spoke with Torsten this morning. Your sump is done and you should have the invoice in the early hours tomorrow morning. There has been a bit of chaos at the factory with a few new hires and one of those new hires is the one that handles logistics and invoicing in addition to new production personnel. I know that doesn't make it any less frustrating but it will improve things at the factory moving forward as they needed additional help there to begin with. None the less, the wait will have been worth it. I can promise you that.

Regarding the socks, we have a bunch of socks packed into a container. There are 200, 300, 400 and 600 micron socks in there. The container is now on a boat and scheduled to arrive in Miami March 13th. From there it needs to clear customs and make it's way to Ft, Myers. As such, we expect it to arrive between March 21st and April 1st.

[Shredded]

@ClownsRCoo - Once mine was finished and crated, just getting the cost for shipping, customs, duties and taxes took about 2 weeks for me. Once they request it from the forwarder it is out of their hands until they hear back. It did take some time. Importing an item from another country is not quite as easy as I thought as these are considered "Formal Imports" and Customs and Border Protection make them jump thru all kinds of hoops to enter the country. I understand that you have your tank, and stand and are ready to go (I'm still not there, love your tank by the way) and I am sure you are chomping at the bit. I go in and sit and look at mine every day. Don't worry, you will love it. Even after going thru all that, I am getting ready to order another one and go thru it again. :spin2:

[ClownsRCoo]

Thanks Shredded

[Shredded]

I can't wait to see yours up and running!! FYI, mine even got bumped off a flight on its way here. Importing is a pain in the butt.

[ClownsRCoo]

I wouldn't mind the delays but what really frustrates me is never getting an answer that tells me what's actually happening. If they would have responded like you did then that's all I'm looking for. Telling me every single time for the past 2 weeks that's it's "preparing for shipment" to me sounds like I'm waiting on RE to crate it up or something on their end. I have gotten the explanation of them restructuring about 10 times as well. It's all I've heard all month is how they are restructuring and preparing it for shipment. The vagueness of their replies drives me up the wall.

[Shredded]

Oh I get it totally. I am sure they got tired of me emailing. I was told at least 10 times that we are still waiting on a response from the forwarder. I kept thinking how difficult can it be, pick up a phone and say come pick this up and ship it to this address. My girlfriend kept asking me, what is your hurry, you don't even have a house to put it in yet? I think its our culture, we want it, and we want it now! lol One of my favorite comedians used to say, we not only have fast food, but you can pick up a phone, order the food to be brought to you and then if they don't have it to you in 30 mins you don't have to pay for it. I think we are the only country in the world where that can happen. I am trying to do better and have more patience. That will also help with my quarantine practices. Oh, so Hey Scott, has that shipment come in yet? :lolspin:

[ReefClownMIA]

<cut> Oh, so Hey Scott, has that shipment come in yet? :lolspin:

Come in? Nooo
BUT! It was loaded onto the ship, 26 hours after the ship was supposed to have sailed.

Our Container has been in transit for a week now... Ship delayed by 2 days... Container was supposed to have been shipped the week prior, but due to some issues including the broker it was delayed a week.
http://content.screencast.com/users/marco_p/folders/Snagit/media/63794050-5473-4383-a3d5-017bbb1afa61/02.24.2016-16.32.png

[Shredded]

Ship??? Did we give up on airplanes. :rollface: JK! OK, after all, I am just going to add that new controller holder and output union so I can go in and sit and look at it every night. Just living thru everyone else's build until I can start mine. Thanks Marco!

[ClownsRCoo]

So for the pat who knows how many weeks they have been getting quotes for it to ship right to my house which is really expensive. It's obviously no where near what they quoted me originally. So they have been trying to find someone that is as cheap as they can find. I of course thought this whole time it was clear that I planned on shipping to local airport and picking up from there. So FINALLY today they tell me what the heck they are actually doing which is wrong. So instead of them just keeping me in the loop and letting me fix this weeks ago I wasted about 2 weeks for nothing. I don't care how awesome this thing is, this experience sucks.

[Shredded]

Wow, so this has not been any fun for you. That sucks. I kind of did the same thing. I thought I could get a better price by getting UPS or FedEx to pick mine up. unfortunately, they would not have anything to do with me since I was not a company. They would not deal with an individual. I wasted two weeks trying to find someone that would work with me. I finally gave up and just said ship it. I did wind up intercepting it from the trucking company because they were not going to deliver until the next Monday. They used JAS Forwarding (USA) Inc. for mine. They walked it thru customs and then put mine on Estee's trucking to get it on to me. You won't really need to have yours forwarded, since you are in Houston, which is the entry port that mine came in, but you still need a broker or someone to walk it thru customs and complete the necessary paperwork. Were you just going to get your own broker?

[ClownsRCoo]

I have no idea. All I have been told is that this will find its way to the local airport and I pick it up from there. I've never done something like this before so I'm totally clueless.

[slief]

I have no idea. All I have been told is that this will find its way to the local airport and I pick it up from there. I've never done something like this before so I'm totally clueless.

It'll get there by horse and buggy! :lolspin:

I'm sorry it's been so frustrating for you. I really wanted this thread to be about owners of these Dreamboxes and not the issues that a couple have faced in the last several weeks but in the interest of transparency, we will not be moderating these posts and instead will we address them and learn from them.

As I said before, I feel your pain and I am sorry about the issues. There is no good excuse for you to have had to endure this chaos. What i can tell you is that there have been some serious changes at the factory which I am going bring to light as those changes are in part the reason for some of the issues you have experienced. Let me say first that your timing couldn't have been worse. As I told you when we spoke on the phone a couple weeks back, 3 people (all related to each other) were relieved of their duties at the factory. One was overseeing production, one was in charge of billing/shipping and logistics and the other was in packing among other things. This was a long time coming and something that needed to happen for the better of the company as they were inhibiting growth and making it difficult to bring in new people. They also weren't accountable for the screw ups which was an issue in and of itself. Not that there were a lot of screw ups because there wasn't but even so, the attitude certainly didn't reflect the brand or what the company was about and it wasn't creating a good environment suitable for growth . It took a lot of balls on Klaus's part to see this through and without a doubt it was the right thing for the better of the company even though the transition created it's own issues. The likes of which you experienced.

Heiki has taken over for Andrea and unfortunately in the transition, Andrea didn't leave any instructions of information on how to do the job. Everything was more or less in her head and not shared. Granted she had been with the company for what I understand was an eternity. She was also responsible for the shipping and freight forwarding. The departure of the 3 people including her was kind of abrupt. In the end, like I said, it was long overdue and it's for the better though the transition created some (an understatement) chaos for Torsten who has had to pick up a lot of slack in areas that aren't normally his "expertootleidge". Unfortunately that buried him and impacted his communications and followups. He was suddenly wearing several hats while also doing training and hand holding. It appears he is seeing the light now and not nearly as stressed has he has been since this all went down. The new people are seemingly getting well up to speed and things are progressing better. In fact, the new team along with Torsten just got a container out and in route to Ft. Myers with one of the largest shipments of skimmers and pumps that we have seen in a long time as well as getting customers Dreamboxes built. This is something that had been in the works for a few months now.

I will say that while I have not met Heiki, she seems to be getting a handle on things fairly quick and she actually cares about doing a good job which is something I haven't seen from that department since I came on board. This says a lot believe it or not since she is the one that interfaces with the customers when it comes to shipping and invoicing from Germany. She is also VERY well spoken which is a very pleasant surprise for those of us on this side of the pond. She might just be the best english speaking person at the facility in Germany and like I said, she is very well polished in her communications skills.. I know that even our resellers are pleased with the direction things are going despite the bumps along the way. She has however been dropped quite literally into the fire head first and I am sure it's been quite a challenge having to blindly fill the shoes of her predecessor. Things like dealing with the freight forwarders, shipping methods, customs documents etc all fall into her lap. Fortunately, near as I can tell, she has been up for the challenge and I truly think she is going to be a huge blessing for the company.

That said, things are settling down there and I feel like things will be flowing better than ever. The transition created a bit of a backlog but it appears there is light at the end of the tunnel. I will say that Royal Exclusiv as a company is 10000% committed to improvement. A year or two back, the US operations were a mess which was reflected on the forum in many posts by rightfully unhappy customers. They invested in a facility out here and then made the necessary changes including getting good inventory here and hires to insure that things were handled the way they should have been all along. You no longer read about people complaining about service and support out here on the US distributed products. In fact, there has been nothing but praise for the support and the expeditious response time to warranty related issues. That credit goes to the factory for doing what was needed on the US side and being committed to improvement. Now they are doing what they need to do for the factory side too and that will be reflected in response time, production turn around etc. Especially once the new team members get fully up to speed.

Change isn't always easy and it certainly presents it's set of hurdles but despite these issues in the last couple months, I think this was change that was needed and certainly change that will be for the better.

Again, I am sorry you had to deal with these head aches. I hope that once you get your new sump, you will have a big smile on your face and put this behind you and appreciate the hard work and skill that went into building that beautiful sump. :thumbsup:

[ClownsRCoo]

You are right. I really tried to remain indifferent on here. I shouldn't have derailed the thread from its intended purpose. I apologize for that. Torsten is a very friendly person and obviously cares and so does Heiki who I spoke with today on the phone. Hopefully my issues are solved and we will have smooth sailing from here. I'll be sure to post my good experiences with the product too so I don't come off as just a troll which I'm not.

My personality coupled with the fact that I hadn't planned on this transition taking so long and my current tank crashing before my eyes has made it worse. I just want to get everything moved over so bad but can't.

[slief]

You are right. I really tried to remain indifferent on here. I shouldn't have derailed the thread from its intended purpose. I apologize for that. Torsten is a very friendly person and obviously cares and so does Heiki who I spoke with today on the phone. Hopefully my issues are solved and we will have smooth sailing from here. I'll be sure to post my good experiences with the product too so I don't come off as just a troll which I'm not.

My personality coupled with the fact that I hadn't planned on this transition taking so long and my current tank crashing before my eyes has made it worse. I just want to get everything moved over so bad but can't.

No worries. Like I said, I truly feel your pain. Seeing your frustration was frustrating for me too. I think most here realize that the US side of things is moving like clock work. Heck, we even monitor our emails 7 days a week just as we do this forum. Most everything up until the first of the year went like clock work and was smooth. At least for the most part. As much as this transition has been frustrating for you and me as I have been trying to stay on top of your stuff as much as I can, it really is a good thing for Royal Exclusiv. I honestly think this needed to happen. It was a subject that came up from the day I came on board as there was no growing the business and the fact that it was increasing was creating a bit of a backlog when it came to getting inventory to the US. We couldn't get the stuff here quick enough. Interestingly though, Dreambox orders were getting built and filled since they were originating and billing directly from Germany. That said, I think when your first Dreambox got built inverted, that was likely the result of the former production manager. This is just speculation on my part but he would have overseen the original work order and the first CNC run.


Anyhow, I do appreciate your patience and understanding and I'm OK with your venting here for better or worse. While not on topic with this thread, it gave me a chance to address the issues and let people know what is going on with the company. Something I might not otherwise have said. In the mean time, I know myself and several others are eager to see the sump in your possession and more over, to see pictures of that thing once you get it.

I have probably disclosed more than the powers that be would have liked but like I said before, I want to be as transparent and honest as possible and things in Germany are moving in the right direction. There is a lot of good going on there. More than I have disclosed and the end result will be good for future customers. There will be some big news coming in the not so distant future. That however will be a subject for another thread! :thumbsup:

[Shredded]

:lolspin:OK, group hug everybody!!:lolspin:
Hi Scott and Marco! So, I am still a still few months away of getting mine set up but, an opportunity has fallen into my lap in the mean time. I have started a separate thread on this but am not getting any participation. I am rebuilding a 700 gallon tank. It was very poorly done originally but could be and will be unreal when I am thru with it. I will post the link below so that I don't have to redo everything. My question to you is this. I know that all of the dream box sizes are preprogrammed into the CNC machine and any changes have to be reprogrammed and I already know that the room I have existing will not accommodate any current dream box size, especially one fit for a tank of this volume. On saying that, I meet with the carpenter today as I am ripping the current tank out, having a new tank custom made and the wood work completely redone. I am going to request more room below. I will have to see what he can do. IF... I have to work with the existing dimensions or just still not enough for an existing size, can a dream box be custom designed to fit the area I have to work with including a large refugium. I intend to use the Triton method with this setup and teach the house manager how to run the tank and I will be on call. I have always wanted to say price is no object and I won't say it now because I am uncomfortable throwing other peoples money around and he is a friend, but my budget is very large and it is at my discretion what to spend it on. Can it be done? Take a look at the link below. We can move this conversation over there but I hope we have a new dream box owner here. Also, the rest of you, chime in on this.


http://www.reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?t=2550241

[ClownsRCoo]

The "something big is in the works" better not be a brand new dreambox design! Haha I'll blow up for sure on here if that happens

[slief]

:lolspin:OK, group hug everybody!!:lolspin:
Hi Scott and Marco! So, I am still a still few months away of getting mine set up but, an opportunity has fallen into my lap in the mean time. I have started a separate thread on this but am not getting any participation. I am rebuilding a 700 gallon tank. It was very poorly done originally but could be and will be unreal when I am thru with it. I will post the link below so that I don't have to redo everything. My question to you is this. I know that all of the dream box sizes are preprogrammed into the CNC machine and any changes have to be reprogrammed and I already know that the room I have existing will not accommodate any current dream box size, especially one fit for a tank of this volume. On saying that, I meet with the carpenter today as I am ripping the current tank out, having a new tank custom made and the wood work completely redone. I am going to request more room below. I will have to see what he can do. IF... I have to work with the existing dimensions or just still not enough for an existing size, can a dream box be custom designed to fit the area I have to work with including a large refugium. I intend to use the Triton method with this setup and teach the house manager how to run the tank and I will be on call. I have always wanted to say price is no object and I won't say it now because I am uncomfortable throwing other peoples money around and he is a friend, but my budget is very large and it is at my discretion what to spend it on. Can it be done? Take a look at the link below. We can move this conversation over there but I hope we have a new dream box owner here. Also, the rest of you, chime in on this.


http://www.reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?t=2550241

Due to the cad work involved in the sump design and the CNC machining that is used to cut the sump material, they don't offer custom sized Dreamboxes. At least not at this point.

Once you have the max available space nailed down, we can see what will work best in that space. There are separate dream box refugiums but you have to get creative in plumbing them into existing dream boxes. That said, what might be feasible would be having a main dreambox that the system drains into. This would house the socks, protein skimmer and media reactors. Then a second smaller dream box that is essentially a gutted dream box that functions as the refugium and hosts the return section. The two boxes would connected together via bulkheads and unions. While my sumps are not dreamboxes, this is how I laid mine out in order to fit them through existing doors below my tank. The main sump in my case is 40"x36" and the refugium with return section is 36"x30". If you take a look at my build thread you can see them there. The sumps are shown in the fist few pages I think.

In the mean time, I will review that thread of yours.

[slief]

The "something big is in the works" better not be a brand new dreambox design! Haha I'll blow up for sure on here if that happens

No no no.. Nothing like that. The only hint I will give is that it's growth related. :dance:

[Shredded]

Will you tell us if we guess?

[ClownsRCoo]

Calcium reactor is my guess

[Shredded]

No, I'm guessing that they are going to expand production facilities to the US Florida facility. It is what I would do.

[danrobberg]

Give us a better hint. Coral growth or company growth lol

[ArmanS]

If they started making these here stateside to make shipping around 500$ a system, tons of people would be ordering these Including me!

[danrobberg]

I think klaus does all the final welding on the Dreamboxes so not sure he would trust sourcing that out. It would make sense though since the shipping for mine was almost a grand. If they can get that shipping down significantly that should boost sales in the us.

[Shredded]

Yes, he does but I'd bet it's got more to do with government regulations then anything. And you all suck... my shipping was 2200.00. I don't wanna hear any more whining about shipping. :lmao: I could have bought mine a first class seat on a passenger jet. :lolspin: Well it was worth it. I am looking for a sump on this rebuild and there is just nothing like them out there.

[ClownsRCoo]

Got word it's finally shipping Thursday... It's starting to get real

[slief]

The "something big is in the works" better not be a brand new dreambox design! Haha I'll blow up for sure on here if that happens

Will you tell us if we guess?

Calcium reactor is my guess

No, I'm guessing that they are going to expand production facilities to the US Florida facility. It is what I would do.

Give us a better hint. Coral growth or company growth lol

If they started making these here stateside to make shipping around 500$ a system, tons of people would be ordering these Including me!

I think klaus does all the final welding on the Dreamboxes so not sure he would trust sourcing that out. It would make sense though since the shipping for mine was almost a grand. If they can get that shipping down significantly that should boost sales in the us.

OK... I guess I can let one cat out of the bag since it was just posted on the Royal Exclusiv Germany Facebook page.. A new facility in Germany is in the works that is much larger with the plans of setting up the new manufacturing facility sometime between now and summer. The end result will be a larger production line with improved turn around on things like Dreamboxes as well as increased production on skimmers and pumps. That will also have a trickle down effect to inventory in the US.

At some point in the not so distant future, there is also plans to stock some Dreamboxes here in the US. While it would be nice to build them here, as noted above, Klaus is the master welder when it comes to these Dreamboxes and building them out here while maintaining the kind of quality that comes with a Dreambox would require Klaus to fly out here every month. Shipping them here in containers is the next best thing, at least in the very near term. The increased production line is needed in order to keep up with demand while also keeping build times as short as humanly possible and it will allow Dream Boxes to be built for stock on hand inventory.

As I mentioned previously, 3 new employees were added in the last 60 days or so and they are getting up to speed in a hurry. This is long overdue and the new hires are already making a positive difference.

This is from the Royal Exclusiv factory Facebook page..

"Under the prevailing circumstances we have to inform that Royal Exclusiv is growing and growing. We are looking forward to move to a new facility after signing the contract. Right now we have hired 3 new colleagues to support our Team. Thanks for all your loyalty and credit you, our customers and dealers spend to us, all over the world!

We are really happy to bring your projects to success. Sincerely Your RE-Team"
https://www.facebook.com/127809333905811/photos/a.394450823908326.90108.127809333905811/1069783123041756/?type=3&theater

[danrobberg]

That's great. I like the fact that the owner of the company still is hands on with every single dreambox. I also think getting some Dreamboxes in stock stateside will be great. Although I bet they get bought up pretty fast.

Scott, any word on when and where I can order some new socks?

[ReefClownMIA]

That's great. I like the fact that the owner of the company still is hands on with every single dreambox. I also think getting some Dreamboxes in stock stateside will be great. Although I bet they get bought up pretty fast.

Scott, any word on when and where I can order some new socks?


We will have some socks come in the container shipment due in mid-end of this month. :)

[slief]

That's great. I like the fact that the owner of the company still is hands on with every single dreambox. I also think getting some Dreamboxes in stock stateside will be great. Although I bet they get bought up pretty fast.

Scott, any word on when and where I can order some new socks?

Socks are in the container shipment that's due to hit Miami next week. Once it clears customs, and they get delivered, they will be available on our site while they last. We expect the container to be delivered in the next 2 weeks.

[slief]

We will have some socks come in the container shipment due in mid-end of this month. :)

Damn dude, we're fast! You beat me by 1 minute! :thumbsup:

[greenstreet.1]

Very very nice it looks like I have to hit you guys up on my next build.

Is that the new apex pump I see in the pics ?

[ReefClownMIA]

This is a group picture of 9/10th of the team in Germany.

https://scontent-atl3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xtp1/t31.0-8/12792261_1069783123041756_1021497719976328271_o.jpg

[danrobberg]

Is it the Royal Exclusiv USA site?

[ReefClownMIA]

Is it the Royal Exclusiv USA site?

Yes, we'll post up a link to the socks once they go online.

[danrobberg]

You guys are fast. So glad I went with RE

[Shredded]

Hey Scott, Does this container have the parts that I wanted also?
On my other project, the tank estimate (tank and stand) came in at 37,000.00. I really would like to put a RE sump on here. Do we have any sumps at all at the Florida facility that I can try to make work? I am going to work with the carpenter to get the width that I need in the cabinet. I have resolved the length issues.

[slief]

Hey Scott, Does this container have the parts that I wanted also?
On my other project, the tank estimate (tank and stand) came in at 37,000.00. I really would like to put a RE sump on here. Do we have any sumps at all at the Florida facility that I can try to make work? I am going to work with the carpenter to get the width that I need in the cabinet. I have resolved the length issues.

Your items are included in the container shipment. No Dreamboxes currently at the Florida facility and there are no dreamboxes for our inventory on this shipment. Worse case, once you figure out exactly what you want in terms of a Dreambox for that system, we will have you place a new order with Germany so they can get that going for you.

[ClownsRCoo]

Is there anyone who has bought one of these and had it shipped to your local airport and picked up from there that I can PM some questions about that process to?

[slief]

...

[slief]

Is there anyone who has bought one of these and had it shipped to your local airport and picked up from there that I can PM some questions about that process to?

It should be pretty simple for you. Just track the shipment through the carrier. They should be able update you about the airline, flight number and even customs status once it arrives at the airport. Once it clears customs, you would pick it up at the airline freight counter at the airport. Typically the freight pickup is outside the airport. The carrier who is handling the transport from Germany to your airport should be able to advice you of the location as should the airline that the sump is being shipped with. Customs will also have your number on the paperwork should be there any issues.

[ArmanS]

Do you think its much cheaper that way? I really really want a dreambox but the shipping quote I received was around $2500.

[ClownsRCoo]

I'm in the process of picking it up. I was charged $350 shipping from RE and just found out the freight forwarder they used is going to charge me another $180 to get it when it's ready later this afternoon. Sucks that I didn't expect having to dish out another $180 but still way cheaper than the price you just mentioned. My dreambox is one of the smaller ones though. Not sure what size you are looking at though

[slief]

I'm in the process of picking it up. I was charged $350 shipping from RE and just found out the freight forwarder they used is going to charge me another $180 to get it when it's ready later this afternoon. Sucks that I didn't expect having to dish out another $180 but still way cheaper than the price you just mentioned. My dreambox is one of the smaller ones though. Not sure what size you are looking at though

I bet that $180 was local state duties or taxes.. Different states have different import fees or taxes from my understanding. Keep us posted. Looking forward to seeing that thing in your home..

[ClownsRCoo]

Customs didn't charge me at all. This was a un-crating fee and warehouse transfer fee from the carrier to the forwarder. Sounds like BS to me but what ever

[slief]

Customs didn't charge me at all. This was a un-crating fee and warehouse transfer fee from the carrier to the forwarder. Sounds like BS to me but what ever

I pinged Germany about that to see what that's all about. Will let you know what I find out. When are you supposed to pick it up?

[ClownsRCoo]

I just brought it home and unloaded it. I borrowed a truck to pick it up so I have to take that back first before I can totally unwrap it. I can tell you that is the best packaged thing I have ever bought. There was at least 6-8" of thick bubble wrap around everything. I'll post pics in about an hour in a half when I get back.

[danrobberg]

That shipping g price is a steal. Take lots of pics and prepare to be blown away. Be careful cutting through the bubble wrap so you don't scratch the dreambox.

[ClownsRCoo]

Oh I cut this thing open like I was a surgeon! Not 1 scratch on it, it's perfect.

So yes, this thing is a work of art! It was a very long day getting it and was more of a pain than I hoped but it was worth it. It's so awesome in person. The skimmer is HUGE! I have a pic of it next to a 10# bottle for my calcium reactor and it dwarfs it! I had no idea how big it would be in person. It's hard to capture the look of the seams on a phone but I love the overall look. I'm cutting the right wall for the stand still and the left one is still unpainted but they will be recessed inside the frame and painted white to go with the theme. I'm going to leave the back and fronts open. The style of the dreambox sets the inside of the stand off. I've got the new Geosreef calcium reactor on its way and his new style is white/clear acrylic so that will add too it. Behind the sump is a 29g tank for my ATO res, to the right will be my lifereef refugium. Too bad that's black. I might move the CaRx up front to show it off more and put the five behind it. Return pump is a Vectra L1 and it fits nicely in case anyone was wondering.

Anyway here are some pics:

http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h182/cshunka/72467052-0075-49EB-BD50-0DD5EE79FD9E_zpsndy5klax.jpg (http://s64.photobucket.com/user/cshunka/media/72467052-0075-49EB-BD50-0DD5EE79FD9E_zpsndy5klax.jpg.html)
http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h182/cshunka/A4C40673-9102-45F1-826C-93739CD59CE1_zpsokwupcjq.jpg (http://s64.photobucket.com/user/cshunka/media/A4C40673-9102-45F1-826C-93739CD59CE1_zpsokwupcjq.jpg.html)
http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h182/cshunka/22B5DCD7-6B3E-42C3-872D-3F7D0597A071_zps2ytx72tw.jpg (http://s64.photobucket.com/user/cshunka/media/22B5DCD7-6B3E-42C3-872D-3F7D0597A071_zps2ytx72tw.jpg.html)
http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h182/cshunka/B6572772-F8F5-4C3B-8D34-6AFBD70F87FB_zpsfcqtindt.jpg (http://s64.photobucket.com/user/cshunka/media/B6572772-F8F5-4C3B-8D34-6AFBD70F87FB_zpsfcqtindt.jpg.html)
http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h182/cshunka/1E6EDABC-03B9-40F7-B2D8-620E2F0E0F6F_zpsnlbvspdm.jpg (http://s64.photobucket.com/user/cshunka/media/1E6EDABC-03B9-40F7-B2D8-620E2F0E0F6F_zpsnlbvspdm.jpg.html)
http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h182/cshunka/4D6C1D04-D04E-4409-BBB1-86103CB696B6_zpsczalkgvm.jpg (http://s64.photobucket.com/user/cshunka/media/4D6C1D04-D04E-4409-BBB1-86103CB696B6_zpsczalkgvm.jpg.html)
http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h182/cshunka/E6227FCB-5EDF-42BE-9114-4FBE1F2D9AE2_zpsfzukypwh.jpg (http://s64.photobucket.com/user/cshunka/media/E6227FCB-5EDF-42BE-9114-4FBE1F2D9AE2_zpsfzukypwh.jpg.html)

This pic shows I had them cut a few more power cord slits for heaters and ATO wires in return section.

http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h182/cshunka/7EA91691-C806-4A5B-80BC-4740F318EECC_zpswkrssnkw.jpg (http://s64.photobucket.com/user/cshunka/media/7EA91691-C806-4A5B-80BC-4740F318EECC_zpswkrssnkw.jpg.html)
http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h182/cshunka/89D2446A-B225-4911-BD4B-9A56F3BE847D_zpskbgctvbn.jpg (http://s64.photobucket.com/user/cshunka/media/89D2446A-B225-4911-BD4B-9A56F3BE847D_zpskbgctvbn.jpg.html)
http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h182/cshunka/2522C70B-FF5A-49D7-859A-4A2015EF49BB_zpseaprvhnq.jpg (http://s64.photobucket.com/user/cshunka/media/2522C70B-FF5A-49D7-859A-4A2015EF49BB_zpseaprvhnq.jpg.html)

[ClownsRCoo]

Here is my lifereef skimmer cup vs this beast.

http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h182/cshunka/5D3A523B-D40B-44EA-AF07-A4D619D59991_zpshq3ngsui.jpg (http://s64.photobucket.com/user/cshunka/media/5D3A523B-D40B-44EA-AF07-A4D619D59991_zpshq3ngsui.jpg.html)
http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h182/cshunka/8D6F7268-4AC9-4045-BD29-0DEAB28808FE_zpsny0fl40f.jpg (http://s64.photobucket.com/user/cshunka/media/8D6F7268-4AC9-4045-BD29-0DEAB28808FE_zpsny0fl40f.jpg.html)

[ReefClownMIA]

Very Nice! I'm glad that you were able to get it this quick after it had finally shipped. She looks real good!

[slief]

Oh I cut this thing open like I was a surgeon! Not 1 scratch on it, it's perfect.

So yes, this thing is a work of art! It was a very long day getting it and was more of a pain than I hoped but it was worth it. It's so awesome in person. The skimmer is HUGE! I have a pic of it next to a 10# bottle for my calcium reactor and it dwarfs it! I had no idea how big it would be in person. It's hard to capture the look of the seams on a phone but I love the overall look. I'm cutting the right wall for the stand still and the left one is still unpainted but they will be recessed inside the frame and painted white to go with the theme. I'm going to leave the back and fronts open. The style of the dreambox sets the inside of the stand off. I've got the new Geosreef calcium reactor on its way and his new style is white/clear acrylic so that will add too it. Behind the sump is a 29g tank for my ATO res, to the right will be my lifereef refugium. Too bad that's black. I might move the CaRx up front to show it off more and put the five behind it. Return pump is a Vectra L1 and it fits nicely in case anyone was wondering.

Anyway here are some pics:

http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h182/cshunka/72467052-0075-49EB-BD50-0DD5EE79FD9E_zpsndy5klax.jpg (http://s64.photobucket.com/user/cshunka/media/72467052-0075-49EB-BD50-0DD5EE79FD9E_zpsndy5klax.jpg.html)
http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h182/cshunka/A4C40673-9102-45F1-826C-93739CD59CE1_zpsokwupcjq.jpg (http://s64.photobucket.com/user/cshunka/media/A4C40673-9102-45F1-826C-93739CD59CE1_zpsokwupcjq.jpg.html)
http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h182/cshunka/22B5DCD7-6B3E-42C3-872D-3F7D0597A071_zps2ytx72tw.jpg (http://s64.photobucket.com/user/cshunka/media/22B5DCD7-6B3E-42C3-872D-3F7D0597A071_zps2ytx72tw.jpg.html)
http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h182/cshunka/B6572772-F8F5-4C3B-8D34-6AFBD70F87FB_zpsfcqtindt.jpg (http://s64.photobucket.com/user/cshunka/media/B6572772-F8F5-4C3B-8D34-6AFBD70F87FB_zpsfcqtindt.jpg.html)
http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h182/cshunka/1E6EDABC-03B9-40F7-B2D8-620E2F0E0F6F_zpsnlbvspdm.jpg (http://s64.photobucket.com/user/cshunka/media/1E6EDABC-03B9-40F7-B2D8-620E2F0E0F6F_zpsnlbvspdm.jpg.html)
http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h182/cshunka/4D6C1D04-D04E-4409-BBB1-86103CB696B6_zpsczalkgvm.jpg (http://s64.photobucket.com/user/cshunka/media/4D6C1D04-D04E-4409-BBB1-86103CB696B6_zpsczalkgvm.jpg.html)
http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h182/cshunka/E6227FCB-5EDF-42BE-9114-4FBE1F2D9AE2_zpsfzukypwh.jpg (http://s64.photobucket.com/user/cshunka/media/E6227FCB-5EDF-42BE-9114-4FBE1F2D9AE2_zpsfzukypwh.jpg.html)

This pic shows I had them cut a few more power cord slits for heaters and ATO wires in return section.

http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h182/cshunka/7EA91691-C806-4A5B-80BC-4740F318EECC_zpswkrssnkw.jpg (http://s64.photobucket.com/user/cshunka/media/7EA91691-C806-4A5B-80BC-4740F318EECC_zpswkrssnkw.jpg.html)
http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h182/cshunka/89D2446A-B225-4911-BD4B-9A56F3BE847D_zpskbgctvbn.jpg (http://s64.photobucket.com/user/cshunka/media/89D2446A-B225-4911-BD4B-9A56F3BE847D_zpskbgctvbn.jpg.html)



Good god!!!! VERY FRICKEN NICE!!! I bet you were like a kid in a candy store.. I know I would be! Seeing this makes me jealous if you can believe that. I wish I had the space to get one of these below my tank but my doors won't permit it with 5000 pounds of tank above it. I told you it would be worth it though.. Absolutely beautiful!

They pack those things like a coffin. Pretty crazy isn't it?? I am so happy for you. Having been communicating with you for so long and living vicariously through your wait, I am really glad it came to a very happy and climactic ending or should I say beginning. You have been very patient and I am just happy you're happy. Congratulations man!! I can't wait to see this come together!! :beer:

[ClownsRCoo]

Thanks Scott for the kind words and the help along the way. I appreciate it.

[ArmanS]

That looks amazing. I really really want one!

[ClownsRCoo]

I got one of the drain lines dry fitted. What do you guys think? Does it look too restrictive?

http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h182/cshunka/34BEFBBF-20C4-416A-9C39-2386EBD7D47A_zps3auzghjx.jpg (http://s64.photobucket.com/user/cshunka/media/34BEFBBF-20C4-416A-9C39-2386EBD7D47A_zps3auzghjx.jpg.html)
http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h182/cshunka/B75ACFD7-C5B6-40D1-BD0C-4B82E56E8D6B_zpsbxcawdm0.jpg (http://s64.photobucket.com/user/cshunka/media/B75ACFD7-C5B6-40D1-BD0C-4B82E56E8D6B_zpsbxcawdm0.jpg.html)

[slief]

I got one of the drain lines dry fitted. What do you guys think? Does it look too restrictive?

http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h182/cshunka/34BEFBBF-20C4-416A-9C39-2386EBD7D47A_zps3auzghjx.jpg (http://s64.photobucket.com/user/cshunka/media/34BEFBBF-20C4-416A-9C39-2386EBD7D47A_zps3auzghjx.jpg.html)
http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h182/cshunka/B75ACFD7-C5B6-40D1-BD0C-4B82E56E8D6B_zpsbxcawdm0.jpg (http://s64.photobucket.com/user/cshunka/media/B75ACFD7-C5B6-40D1-BD0C-4B82E56E8D6B_zpsbxcawdm0.jpg.html)


That looks pretty damn good! I say that as I'm wiping the slobber off my keyboard.

[ClownsRCoo]

I'm thinking I can run my second drain right along side that one but the 3rd will be a problem. I might have to run spa flex for that one. Anyone know if they make that in red anywhere?

[Shredded]

For vacuum but should work.

[ClownsRCoo]

Something like that will glue fine? Even with the large gaps between the ridges?

[Shredded]

The outside has ridges but I believe the inside is smooth. Clamps not glue probably. It's made for vacuum so it has to be able to seal around a nipple of some sort.

[ClownsRCoo]

Thanks

[danrobberg]

Sorry for the thumbnail but here is how mine is plumbed into the dreambox.

[danrobberg]

I hate that no matter what I do the pic gets turned sideways.

[ClownsRCoo]

It's taking longer than expected to get this thing going but I got all my drains fitted up. I ran out of fittings to be able to finish my returns. I should get it all finished this weekend

http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h182/cshunka/7C3211E4-98F0-4411-828B-0F777C1BBFD7_zpsjl7mur23.jpg (http://s64.photobucket.com/user/cshunka/media/7C3211E4-98F0-4411-828B-0F777C1BBFD7_zpsjl7mur23.jpg.html)

[ClownsRCoo]

Also have to add my ball and gate valves into the plumbing too

[danrobberg]

Any updates on when filter socks will be available stateside?

[slief]

Any updates on when filter socks will be available stateside?

We have a the following mesh socks in stock in Ft. Myers now. We are hoping to have more on hand with the next shipment. These are not listed on our US website right now but if you want some, let me know and we will add them so you can order. Shoot me an email and we will get which ever ones you need added so you can place an order.

10x 600micron
10x 400micron
4x 300micron

[ReefClownMIA]

I got a chance to see this beauty this weekend, helped its rightful owner install and assemble the reactors, pumps, skimmer and pump controllers.

http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160404/e2812ed51acd37d3d000b826c6703b7d.jpg

http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160404/7c2bb778b10424d0a6fc8da049defe3c.jpg

http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160404/8c4deee39e648e3cd4077390b607e42d.jpg

http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160404/a68b2550cbd474adfb50393060c51bc6.jpg

http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160404/5d9f745ca9ce7fef1407eaace6c404bb.jpg

http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160404/1fc8d02639f80e66e3cecdce620e5672.jpg

http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160404/6ad4628d4d5cc747757df74e884ae3c1.jpg

http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160404/c2aad1343e64e8a430a626afe262d38e.jpg

http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160404/9592cf1c86b5ccb2bace4e6d59663c03.jpg

[michaelrc51]

Beautiful!
Is that a 7C?

[ReefClownMIA]

Beautiful!
Is that a 7C?

Essentially it is a 7c, thought the skimmer and pumps were changed some.

In the above, the skimmer is a DeLuxe 200, and a single RD3 230w for return and media reactors. Very sweet system.

[michaelrc51]

Essentially it is a 7c, thought the skimmer and pumps were changed some.

In the above, the skimmer is a DeLuxe 200, and a single RD3 230w for return and media reactors. Very sweet system.

Awesome!
Can't wait to get my 7B!

[simonh]

Here's a picture of mine when I installed it 3 years ago:

http://www.reefcentral.com/forums/picture.php?albumid=10945&pictureid=75048

I've just taken down my tank and cleaned up the dream box ready for a house move. It's cleaned up as good as the day I bought it which isn't bad considering it's in my garage so not the best of environments.

I even built a matching calcium reactor out of a RE 150 multi-filter. It's the best calcium reactor I ever used. I ran it for the last 2 years and just unscrewed the lid every couple of months and threw in more media. Never cleaned it or messed around with CO2 air-locks like with my old Deltec PF601. Such a simple design but so effective.

[Salty150]

Will be nice once they get here to the US...

But by that time, I will probably have my new aquarium up and running and it will be too late for me... :uhoh2:

[michaelrc51]

Will be nice once they get here to the US...

But by that time, I will probably have my new aquarium up and running and it will be too late for me... :uhoh2:

Don't wait, order it now and in a few months you'll have one.
If you are waiting for them to be available in the US, remember that you'll still have to pay shipping from RE USA to you which will probably be close to the shipping price from Germany.
Overall, I don't think the price is outrageous considering the cost of all the components and having everything in one package.
Sure, you could buy cheaper components.....but then I doubt you would have been considering a Dreambox anyway.

[Salty150]

If you are waiting for them to be available in the US, remember that you'll still have to pay shipping from RE USA to you which will probably be close to the shipping price from Germany.


lol, have you seen the prices people in here stated they paid for shipping from Germany? :eek1:

$2,000-$2,300 - the few that stated the cost have stated - that is just for shipping.

No way shipping from Florida is going to be anywhere near that much.

Plus the ones in Florida will not be "custom" made to order - they will be pre-made so that should help the price as well.

So, overall the price should be great for us in the US, finally. :D

[greenstreet.1]

Was just on the site trying to put something together for my next build A 300-400g was looking at the sample set 5c I really like it but could not get a shipping price on the site. If you guys are correct about the shipping cost then that means it will cost me over 5000 US for the sump ?


Onelove.

[slief]

Was just on the site trying to put something together for my next build A 300-400g was looking at the sample set 5c I really like it but could not get a shipping price on the site. If you guys are correct about the shipping cost then that means it will cost me over 5000 US for the sump ?


Onelove.

The site will not quote you on shipping. Unfortunately, the German website doen't calculate crated weight let alone the various shipping options from Germany to the US. Unlike domestic shipping that can be obtained via various web applications, those applications don't exist for international freight. Also, there is door to door service and airport to airport. Shipping can range from a handful of hundreds of dollars to your nearest major international airport to over $1000 door to door. The shipping quotes are handled direct through Germany. If you know exactly what you want we can get a quote going but keep in mind that the factory is moving this summer and there is a temporary moratorium on new custom Dreamboxes as a result. It's likely to be a few months before any new custom Dreamboxes ship.

[greenstreet.1]

Thank you very much for the info I just sent them an email about that.
The model I was looking at is the SAMPLE SET 5c


Onelove.

[Salty150]

Thank you very much for the info I just sent them an email about that.
The model I was looking at is the SAMPLE SET 5c

Onelove.

Hey, if you would, let me know what they are stating the total cost and shipping charge is - because the 5c is also one that I am looking at.

[greenstreet.1]

Well for the full 5c setup I'm looking at 3700 for it


Onelove.

[slief]

Thank you very much for the info I just sent them an email about that.
The model I was looking at is the SAMPLE SET 5c


Onelove.

Please send me the email so we can walk this through and avoid any confusion. I will PM you my email address. Please send me an email including every option you want including skimmer, pump, led's media reactors, inlet fitting sizes, etc.
Please include your ship to address and also your nearest international airport assuming you have the ability to pick it up from there. It can save a lot of mone as a big part of the cost is domestic shipping. These ship in large crates so shipping even through the states can be very expensive. I also should have said that it likely to be a few months before any new Dreamboxes go to production since the move is scheduled for this summer and no new Dreamboxe orders are being planned for production until after the move. As such, it's likely to be even longer before custom Dreamboxes ship. The tentative plan is for Dreamboxes to be built for US stock before custom orders go through. We don't know yet what those will be or when they will arrive but it's possible they arrive this summer. Time will tell. In the meantime, send me that email and we can get you some numbers.

[greenstreet.1]

Just Pmed you my email making the list now


Onelove.

[michaelrc51]

lol, have you seen the prices people in here stated they paid for shipping from Germany? :eek1:

$2,000-$2,300 - the few that stated the cost have stated - that is just for shipping.

No way shipping from Florida is going to be anywhere near that much.

Plus the ones in Florida will not be "custom" made to order - they will be pre-made so that should help the price as well.

So, overall the price should be great for us in the US, finally. :D

I am surprised, the freight quote I got is just under 700 EUR. That is picked up at JFK airport. At that price I don't think it would be much cheaper for a pallet from FL to NJ.
I sure hope the freight quote from Torsten, which was forwarded from the freight carrier, isn't close......$2k would be an issue.

I ordered a 7B with a few variations anyway so I guess mine is a little custom.

[slief]

I am surprised, the freight quote I got is just under 700 EUR. That is picked up at JFK airport. At that price I don't think it would be much cheaper for a pallet from FL to NJ.
I sure hope the freight quote from Torsten, which was forwarded from the freight carrier, isn't close......$2k would be an issue.

I ordered a 7B with a few variations anyway so I guess mine is a little custom.

You are correct about cost to transport it from Fl to NJ.. The cost between DIM weight, insurance and transport would probably be near that price. That said, if it were shipping direct from Germany to you, it likely wouldn't be going through Fl anyways.

Counter to Counter is much cheaper than Door To Door. These typically ship in a crate that is about the size of a coffin and in some cases larger. On the US side, the carriers charge by DIM weight meaning that even if the shipment only weighs 200 pounds, they will calculate a much heavier weight because of the odd size. Insurance/declared value also adds a huge chunk to the cost on the domestic transport. Then there is a lift gate fee if you don't have a forklift. Residential delivery fees etc. The freight companies get you at every end which is why I recommend picking up at the airport assuming you are near a major international one. Only downside to picking up at the AP besides having some able bodied friends and a pickup truck or van is the additional customs paperwork you need to complete on this side. Fortunately customs is very helpful in completing any forms in advance of the pickup and they generally contact before the shipment clears to let you know what they need from you upon pickup.

[michaelrc51]

You are correct about cost to transport it from Fl to NJ.. The cost between DIM weight, insurance and transport would probably be near that price. That said, if it were shipping direct from Germany to you, it likely wouldn't be going through Fl anyways.

Counter to Counter is much cheaper than Door To Door. These typically ship in a crate that is about the size of a coffin and in some cases larger. On the US side, the carriers charge by DIM weight meaning that even if the shipment only weighs 200 pounds, they will calculate a much heavier weight because of the odd size. Insurance/declared value also adds a huge chunk to the cost on the domestic transport. Then there is a lift gate fee if you don't have a forklift. Residential delivery fees etc. The freight companies get you at every end which is why I recommend picking up at the airport assuming you are near a major international one. Only downside to picking up at the AP besides having some able bodied friends and a pickup truck or van is the additional customs paperwork you need to complete on this side. Fortunately customs is very helpful in completing any forms in advance of the pickup and they generally contact before the shipment clears to let you know what they need from you upon pickup.

Yeah, I was just saying if they were going to wait until you guys are stocking them here it won't be much different. I think some people are figuring the shipping costs will be drastically less if they were in stock in FL or shipped in container with your normal stock to FL and then onto it's final destination.
This is what made me go ahead with my order, I couldn't see shipping from FL being much less than the freight I will paying for for mine from Germany.

Thanks again for all the help.

[danrobberg]

Just did a total cleaning of my dreambox and both rd3 pumps. Looks brand new again. I hope the 200 micron socks I just got keep it clean.

[Shredded]

I was the one that posted mine at 2200.00 US dollars. I started out with the 5C. Then I wanted a bigger return pump, but the controller brackets won't hold the big controllers, so I added a second RD 3 80 Watt. Then, the box wasn't big enough to hold both so we went up to the 7 series size to accommodate the two pumps (which required CNC changes for the top) Then, the 5C comes with the water top off box and I wanted to match the size of the new box, so, that was more. After all was said and done, shipping the sump, top off box, extra equipment, pumps etc, this thing while not only being the size of a coffin weighed a figurative ton. I am in OKC, so, it arrived in Houston and I paid door to door (high dollar), it was loaded on a truck and arrived at the trucking company about two miles from where I work. I couldn't wait for the delivery on Monday so my son and I drove over in his truck and picked it up. I am a body builder and my son is a big strong boy and the two of us loaded it but it was not easy. So, is 2200.00 that bad, wasn't my favorite expenditure but thinking about all that had to take place to get it from Germany to me. Also, keep in mind, that day i paid that, the dollar sucked against the Euro. It was 1.15. Doesn't seem like much but with that amount of money, its a big difference.

[Salty150]

Yeah... I think the vast majority would say that paying $2,200 for shipping a dreambox - is "that bad"...

[michaelrc51]

I was the one that posted mine at 2200.00 US dollars. I started out with the 5C. Then I wanted a bigger return pump, but the controller brackets won't hold the big controllers, so I added a second RD 3 80 Watt. Then, the box wasn't big enough to hold both so we went up to the 7 series size to accommodate the two pumps (which required CNC changes for the top) Then, the 5C comes with the water top off box and I wanted to match the size of the new box, so, that was more. After all was said and done, shipping the sump, top off box, extra equipment, pumps etc, this thing while not only being the size of a coffin weighed a figurative ton. I am in OKC, so, it arrived in Houston and I paid door to door (high dollar), it was loaded on a truck and arrived at the trucking company about two miles from where I work. I couldn't wait for the delivery on Monday so my son and I drove over in his truck and picked it up. I am a body builder and my son is a big strong boy and the two of us loaded it but it was not easy. So, is 2200.00 that bad, wasn't my favorite expenditure but thinking about all that had to take place to get it from Germany to me. Also, keep in mind, that day i paid that, the dollar sucked against the Euro. It was 1.15. Doesn't seem like much but with that amount of money, its a big difference.

Sounds similar to mine. Originally I was going with a 7B with 2 RD3 80 watt pumps and then ended up going with 2 RD3 150 watt return pumps.
I am just thinking what all you got cause it sounds like we bought pretty similar stuff and mine was 275 lbs with the sumps, pumps , skimmer, 3 reactors, and all the extras. Sounds like the only difference is the ATO?

My shipping was under $1k and I think the exchange rate was 1.13 that day.

I will get pics up later this week. Picked it up last week.

[slief]

Yeah... I think the vast majority would say that paying $2,200 for shipping a dreambox - is "that bad"...

The door to door adds a huge amount to the transit. Domestic carriers charge a lot for shipping due to the crate size. Flying it across the ponds airport to airport is one thing but domestic transport adds substantial costs. Same can be said about domestic sump builders who ship high cost sumps and tanks in crates. Much of the cost isn't based on actual weight but dimensional weight due to space allotments in the trucks that transport them. Adding things like ATO tanks and stuff increases the height of the crate which also adds to the "DIM value/cost". Then you start adding the skimmers, pumps and other things and insurance drives the cost up substantially. Especially once it gets into domestic carriers hands.

On the flip side, if you look at the tanks of many Dreambox owners systems, these installs are virtually no expense spared installations. In fact, the cost of the Dreambox and shipping is only a fraction of what is being spent on the complete systems. If you have never seen one in person, you will never understand the design, craftsmanship and build quality of the Dreambox. These are not like ANY other sump on the market. Not even close. Nor are the Bubble King skimmers and the pumps and other components that go with them. Some would say that Kia will do the same thing as a Mercedes, Austin Martin or Bently but rest assured, you would be much more comfortable driving across the country in the Bently than a Kia. The Dreambox's ARE the Bently's or Austin Martins of the sump industr but from an craftsmanship and aesthetic point of view, there isn't another product out there that is remotely close. Some may look similar but they don't use the PVC that the Dreambox uses. Even the clear Windows and lids on the Dreambox are made from transparent PVC. Not acrylic. These will NEVER craze, crack, bow, deflect or have seams that seperate. They will never yellow either and can always been cleaned to look like new even after 10 years of abuse.

In most installations, they become the focal point beyond the display. In fact, very often, people fret when it comes to covering their stands or enclosing them because these sumps are as close to works of art as you can get when it comes to a filter box. Some have added Windows to their filter rooms and closets just so the Dreambox can be seen. Granted, these are certainly not for everybody. Most people can't afford them but those that can have a taste for unsurpassed quality and the "finer things in life".

If you don't believe me, just ask Dreambox owners. I have nothing to gain from Dreambox sales other than knowing that once they arrive with customers, I always hear how happy they are and how worth the cost it wait it was. Royal Exclsuiv USA gains absolutely nothing from the sale of these., While I don't own a Dreambox because one wouldn't fit below my tank through the doors, I would in a heartbeat if they made them in custom sizes so I get a pair of them through my openings. When you compare the costs of making custom sumps like I had to, the reality is that the cost of the Dreambox even with shipping isn't all that bad. Especially for the larger ones. If you have it shipped direct to a major airport, the price is actually pretty good when compared with a larger custom designed sump. In fact, the custom sumps I designed for my 480 gallon display cost me a small fortune to have made and more than a Dreambox would have. They aren't anywhere near as nice though they work great for my needs and those of my system.

If you are going to attend MACNA this year, we should have at least 1 on display there and you can see them first hand.

[Shredded]

What he said. Couldn't have said it better.

[michaelrc51]

Here is my Dreambox 7B with 3 reactors and dual RD3 150watt return pumps.

http://i803.photobucket.com/albums/yy318/michaelrc5176/20160714_193524_zps2lp5kfqo.jpg (http://s803.photobucket.com/user/michaelrc5176/media/20160714_193524_zps2lp5kfqo.jpg.html)

http://i803.photobucket.com/albums/yy318/michaelrc5176/20160714_193544_zpssk4kvape.jpg (http://s803.photobucket.com/user/michaelrc5176/media/20160714_193544_zpssk4kvape.jpg.html)

http://i803.photobucket.com/albums/yy318/michaelrc5176/20160714_193558_zpsjobct63x.jpg (http://s803.photobucket.com/user/michaelrc5176/media/20160714_193558_zpsjobct63x.jpg.html)

http://i803.photobucket.com/albums/yy318/michaelrc5176/20160714_193620_zpsi1khkxau.jpg (http://s803.photobucket.com/user/michaelrc5176/media/20160714_193620_zpsi1khkxau.jpg.html)

http://i803.photobucket.com/albums/yy318/michaelrc5176/20160714_193642_zpssggu9cpd.jpg (http://s803.photobucket.com/user/michaelrc5176/media/20160714_193642_zpssggu9cpd.jpg.html)

http://i803.photobucket.com/albums/yy318/michaelrc5176/20160714_193703_zpsl1nhymxb.jpg (http://s803.photobucket.com/user/michaelrc5176/media/20160714_193703_zpsl1nhymxb.jpg.html)

http://i803.photobucket.com/albums/yy318/michaelrc5176/20160714_193718_zps8xwz0w35.jpg (http://s803.photobucket.com/user/michaelrc5176/media/20160714_193718_zps8xwz0w35.jpg.html)

http://i803.photobucket.com/albums/yy318/michaelrc5176/IMG_0044_zpsenyud2zj.jpg (http://s803.photobucket.com/user/michaelrc5176/media/IMG_0044_zpsenyud2zj.jpg.html)

[Salty150]

Here is my Dreambox 7B with 3 reactors and dual RD3 150watt return pumps.



I know I am going to regret asking, lol.

But, how much was it?

[michaelrc51]

I know I am going to regret asking, lol.

But, how much was it?

If they had a emoji for my left nut.....LOL.

You gotta think about whats included. These are prices of just the various parts.
BK SuperMarin 200 w/RD3 50watt--$1580.08
2, RD3 150watt pumps-- $1178.82ea = $2357.64
3.5l pellet reactor-- $266.99
3.5l media rector-- $388.99
5l media reactor-- $333.99

Totally just those parts-- $4927.69

Now that is retail and they give you a bit of a discount to order all together.
But this is one of the reasons why it is worth it. The actual sump with everything plumbed and all really isn't much money when you take the rest into account. And the quality is just like Slief says.
I don't want to say exactly what the costs were in this post, but I can guaranty it's probably much less than you think after these parts that I listed. Also, I did this a bit different and added some things like 2 return pumps so....
Scott and Marco are definitely a big asset to Royal Exclusiv and are very helpful.

[Salty150]

If they had a emoji for my left nut.....LOL.



LOL, sounds about right! :lol2:

It sure is nice though!

[michaelrc51]

Now Scott and Marco need to convince them to make Calc Reactors!

[mike810]

Is there any 200 micron socks available here in the US that would fit the dream box? I'm going to need a boat load of them.

[ReefClownMIA]

Is there any 200 micron socks available here in the US that would fit the dream box? I'm going to need a boat load of them.

Hi Mike; all socks are listed on the website to purchase:
http://royalexclusiv.com/Dreamboxen/Dreambox-Filter-bag-filter-socks:::58_93.html

Let us know if you have any questions. :)

[mike810]

Thanks Marco for the reply. How do these hold up compared to felt of the same micron? Do they catch as much crud as the felt socks?

[slief]

Thanks Marco for the reply. How do these hold up compared to felt of the same micron? Do they catch as much crud as the felt socks?

I find the mesh socks don't trap as much sediment as their felt counterparts when I did testing in my sump. The larger Dreamboxes are unique though in that they have different stages of socks that the water is filtered through so it's a bit different than my sump which is singe stage. It's my understanding that a 100 micron mesh is equivalent to a 200 micro felt. How true that is, I am not sure. On the other hand, the mesh socks don't back up nearly as fast so that may be advantageous to some. If I were running a Dreambox, I would likely use all 200 micron socks instead of the multiple grades of socks that they use. I say probably because I don't run one myself and unless I did, I couldn't be certain. The fact that they use different micron socks at different levels of the sock section is unique and more effective than a single stage sock arrangement that is typical of most sumps. As such, I would run it as designed before I could formulate an honest opinion.

[mike810]

If I were running a Dreambox, I would likely use all 200 micron socks instead of the multiple grades of socks that they use.

Funny you say that because that is what I want to do. Run all 200 micron socks so no sediment or anything for that matter gets through. The sock compartment looks like a tight squeeze and would probably be a pita to clean.

[LesMartin]

I ordered my dreambox with the 200 micron mesh filters. As Slief has said, they don't trap as much as a 200 micron felt filter so I tried the 100 micron mesh filters. I still wasn't really 100% happy with those either so resorted to using 200 micron felt filters. I obtained these from china via ebay as they were only £1 (approx $1.20 US) including shipping.

[zchauvin]

Guys anyone have a dreambox Nano? I'm looking for reviews but can't find anything online other than ************ coverage of initial launch.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[slief]

Guys anyone have a dreambox Nano? I'm looking for reviews but can't find anything online other than ************ coverage of initial launch.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

We one fully loaded Dreambox Nano system in stock in our Ft. Myers office. We had one at MACNA this year under the demo tank. It was beautiful. They are just like their larger Dreambox big brothers only more comapact for smaller systems.

[ClownsRCoo]

Mine is just slightly bigger than the nano size and so far I love it. I think I've had it almost a year now.

[mike810]

I ordered my dreambox with the 200 micron mesh filters. As Slief has said, they don't trap as much as a 200 micron felt filter so I tried the 100 micron mesh filters. I still wasn't really 100% happy with those either so resorted to using 200 micron felt filters. I obtained these from china via ebay as they were only £1 (approx $1.20 US) including shipping.

I figure the mesh wouldn't trap as much as felt. That's why I want to use felt throughout the filter sock stages.

Do you have a link to where you got them? How are they holding up to washing/cleaning? I have a dreambox on the way and would like to be prepared. Thanks!

[LesMartin]

I figure the mesh wouldn't trap as much as felt. That's why I want to use felt throughout the filter sock stages.

Do you have a link to where you got them? How are they holding up to washing/cleaning? I have a dreambox on the way and would like to be prepared. Thanks!

I'm in the UK so use the Ebay UK location but as they came from China I'd imagine they would have similar listings for your area. As for washing/cleaning I wash them inside out in the washing machine (no detergent) then a week or so in a bleach solution to oxidise any remaining organics then a quick rinse wash in the washing machine again. So far, so good.

[danrobberg]

What is the size for the eBay filter socks? I believe they need to be 3.75 inches. In the u.s. I can only find socks with a 4 inch collar. I use a row of 400 micron and a row of 200 micron mesh socks now. The way I see it is the 400 just keeps the big chunks of food thAt get through the overflow from clogging up the 200 micron row. I wash the 200 micron socks about every 3 days and the 400 once a week. Felt socks get more out but they don't clean as nice or last as long.

[LesMartin]

What is the size for the eBay filter socks? I believe they need to be 3.75 inches. In the u.s. I can only find socks with a 4 inch collar. I use a row of 400 micron and a row of 200 micron mesh socks now. The way I see it is the 400 just keeps the big chunks of food thAt get through the overflow from clogging up the 200 micron row. I wash the 200 micron socks about every 3 days and the 400 once a week. Felt socks get more out but they don't clean as nice or last as long.

I just ordered 4" socks. They fit nicely.

[slief]

I just ordered 4" socks. They fit nicely.

Thank you for sharing that info!! Marco and I were just talking about this yesterday! I asked him to get a measurement of the sock openings in a Dreambox we have at the Ft.Myers facility as I had a sneaky suspicion the 4" ones would work! I was measuring one of my 4" socks from another one of my systems and the inside diameter of the ring on the sock seemed to match up with the Dreambox metric sock size spec. The outside diameter of the ring in theory would sit nicely on the sock tray which had me thinking that depending on the way Germany measured the socks, the 4" ones would likely work fine. You saved him from having to take a measurement.

[danrobberg]

I tried a 4 inch sock and it didn't fit in mine. The collar was too big.

[slief]

I tried a 4 inch sock and it didn't fit in mine. The collar was too big.

Hmmmmm..... Also good to know. Interesting that Les had a different experience. Would love to know what socks Les ordered.

[ClownsRCoo]

I tried a 4 inch sock and it didn't fit in mine. The collar was too big.



Same experience for me. I already had like (12) 4" socks from my old sump and none worked. The hole was too small.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[mike810]

Is there a video that shows how much noise reduction is applied when the filter sock silencers are in place? RE video has music so not much of a video for the silencer.

[LesMartin]

Hmmmmm..... Also good to know. Interesting that Les had a different experience. Would love to know what socks Les ordered.

I'd love to be more specific but as RE just list a 4" sock on their European website (but only the nylon mesh version) I assumed they were all the exact same dimension. I must have just got lucky with my Ebay socks. I can't even look through the order history as I don't have an Ebay account so anything I buy I check out as a guest.

[ClownsRCoo]

Is there a video that shows how much noise reduction is applied when the filter sock silencers are in place? RE video has music so not much of a video for the silencer.



Mine took the sound from the trickle of water to pretty much dead silent. I feel it was worth it and would buy them again if that helps at all


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[mike810]

Mine took the sound from the trickle of water to pretty much dead silent. I feel it was worth it and would buy them again if that helps at all


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Thanks, absolutely what I was looking for as they are not cheap and I'll need 13 of them!

Does the FL facility carry these?

[Klaus Jansen]

Our Royal-Exclusiv Dealer in Switzerland and his Showroom ....

best regards .. .Klaus

[Klaus Jansen]

.. 2 x Closed Loop Pumps Red Dragon Speedys, 150 Watt

[jporter]

I'm in! Dream Box 3b Deluxe coming my way. Should be delivered this week along with other GHL gear on the same pallet. Got to love equipment that's packaged and delivered in a crate. Will post some pictures and updates after getting it installed and operational. JP

[mike810]

Hey Scott,

I need some advice. I have a dream box on order and they are finalizing all the pieces and getting ready to glue and weld. The box itself is coming along nicely but they ran into a snag. I have the supermarin 250 on order which is completely out of stock for the next 5-6 weeks! They have asked if I want to upgrade to a different skimmer and need your advice if I should wait or opt for a different skimmer.

The new tank will be a 360g with a 8D box. Planning a full blown sps tank with tons of tangs, wrasses, anthias and just a ton of fish in general. I have the option to go with the following skimmers:
Deluxe 250
Deluxe 300
Supermarin 300

I've always read that the supermarin 250 is a great skimmer from many users. Could you tell me if any of the following skimmers listed perform as good or better than the sm250? The cost to upgrade is minimal but I'd like to make the right decision the first time.

What would you choose and why for a tank setup like this?

[ReefClownMIA]

Hi Mike,
I know I'm not Scott, but I'll take a shot at this ;)
Given the situation, and actually the chance to change, I'd go for the Deluxe 250!

The deluxe IMO is just a little bit better, and more adjustable. It will allow for a wider range for loads, both + and - on the gallon rating and load factor of your tank due to its adjustability. The Deluxe models can dry skin better than the Supermarins if you want it to, or wet, or anything in between.
That is why we classify them as our highest end, Deluxe! :)

To me personally, I'd go for the Deluxe and would see it as a chance, rather than an issue. The cost difference is really not that much.

Let us know what you end up choosing. :)

-marco

[mike810]

Marco,

Thanks for your input even though you're not Scott ����. I should have added if anyone with experience can chime in lol. I will look into the deluxe more when I get home. Yes the cost to upgrade is minuscule in the grand scheme of things. I just want to get the best for my tank as this will be the last upgrade I see for awhile.

[slief]

Hi Mike,
I know I'm not Scott, but I'll take a shot at this ;)
Given the situation, and actually the chance to change, I'd go for the Deluxe 250!

The deluxe IMO is just a little bit better, and more adjustable. It will allow for a wider range for loads, both + and - on the gallon rating and load factor of your tank due to its adjustability. The Deluxe models can dry skin better than the Supermarins if you want it to, or wet, or anything in between.
That is why we classify them as our highest end, Deluxe! :)

To me personally, I'd go for the Deluxe and would see it as a chance, rather than an issue. The cost difference is really not that much.

Let us know what you end up choosing. :)

-marco

I agree 100% with Marco. In fact, given the choice between the SM250 and the Deluxe 250, I would have suggested the Deluxe 250 any day of the week over the SM250. Especially given your display size. I run the SM250 on my 480 gallon display that has over 70 fish in it (many of which are very large) and it hardly has to work. My system is over 700 gallon total volume too. I toyed with the idea of a 300 when I bought my SM250 nearly 3 years ago but err'd on the side of caution because I knew the 300 would be too large for my system and inconsistent as a result. I honestly think the SM250 would be too large for your display and think the Deluxe 250 would be more consistent and easier to tune. Any of the 300's would be WAY too large for your system. Heck, you could even go with the Deluxe 200 or SM200 and be just fine but I do prefer the Deluxe's since they are a bit more flexible and as such, the Deluxe 250 should work well for you. That said, I think this "snag" is actually a blessing in disguise. As I said, the SM250 is really on the large size for your display as far as the Supermarin's go. You would need a ridiculously heavy load to keep it consistent and in an SPS tank, it's highly unlikely that you would ever be near a heavy load given that a truly heavy load is 1/2" of fish per gallon. Even then, the Deluxe 250 would have no issues handling that load.

P.S. They only skimmer I'd give up my Supermarin for would be the Deluxe.. :thumbsup:

[slief]

Marco,

Thanks for your input even though you're not Scott ����.

:rollface: :lmao: :lmao: :rollface:


If it makes you feel any better, my wife refers to Marco as my other wife! :lmao:

[mike810]

Lol Scott. Thank you for the advice. Looks like I will be going with the deluxe. I will let Torsten know and hopefully the box will ship soon. Thank you to Marco and Scott, you two really have elevated RE's customer service state side.

[slief]

Lol Scott. Thank you for the advice. Looks like I will be going with the deluxe. I will let Torsten know and hopefully the box will ship soon. Thank you to Marco and Scott, you two really have elevated RE's customer service state side.

We are both really glad to help! :beer:

[ReefClownMIA]

Thank you to Marco and Scott, you two really have elevated RE's customer service state side.

Ssshhhh! Don't tell anyone that we're helpful... or they'll all come! :P

Glad to help. Happy Friday!

[jporter]

Here is my Dream Box under my new tank build. Should have water running through it by the end of the weekend. Rock goes in today after a quick tank leak test. Will be starting a build thread as time permits. Ignore the blue tape still on the stand. I haven't taken off the protective tape yet. JP

[mike810]

great selection of equipment.

[mike810]

:lolspin: Just paid the balance for my order, feeling excited.

[mike810]

My dream box came in today. Didn't have time to snap a pic of the crate but it was nicely packed, super heavy. Delivery guy came alone with no forklift, no tools, no nada. I had to uncrate it myself while he just stood around but at least he helped me carry it into the house.

[mike810]

A few more.

[mike810]

last one

[slief]

My dream box came in today. Didn't have time to snap a pic of the crate but it was nicely packed, super heavy. Delivery guy came alone with no forklift, no tools, no nada. I had to uncrate it myself while he just stood around but at least he helped me carry it into the house.

A few more.

last one

Wow!! That is VERY nice!! It got there pretty fast given it left Germany less than 10 days ago. Congrats!

[mike810]

Thanks Scott! My wife was like, "wow it's so pretty and it's just a sump", LOL.

Anyways, I'm still looking for felt filter socks that will fit the dream box. I tried BRS and IM filter socks and they don't fit. I don't think the mesh socks that comes with the box will not adequately catch all the detritus. If someone could link me or PM me with a link for felt socks, that would be much appreciated!

[ClownsRCoo]

Nothing fits but the RE socks and I don't know why they send 600-800 micron socks with it. Those are useless. You can get some 200's from RE though that work good but cost a fortune for a sock.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[slief]

Thanks Scott! My wife was like, "wow it's so pretty and it's just a sump", LOL.

Anyways, I'm still looking for felt filter socks that will fit the dream box. I tried BRS and IM filter socks and they don't fit. I don't think the mesh socks that comes with the box will not adequately catch all the detritus. If someone could link me or PM me with a link for felt socks, that would be much appreciated!

Nothing fits but the RE socks and I don't know why they send 600-800 micron socks with it. Those are useless. You can get some 200's from RE though that work good but cost a fortune for a sock.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

We have been pushing RE for felt socks and I will bring this back up this week with them. The issue is that the socks are metric sized which is next to impossible to find out here in the US. The cost is certainly a factor but when you factor in RE's actual cost and the margins needed to sustain the distribution channel, it's tough to keep the costs down on those. We do normally stock the mesh socks in a fairly wide range of micron though and that includes 200's. I am not sure what our Ft. Myers inventory looks like on those right now but they come and go in our inventory.

[Koestby86]

My dream box came in today. Didn't have time to snap a pic of the crate but it was nicely packed, super heavy. Delivery guy came alone with no forklift, no tools, no nada. I had to uncrate it myself while he just stood around but at least he helped me carry it into the house.


Great looking dream box, it won't disappoint u for sure. Im so chuffed that I went with a dream box and not a standard glass sump when I went bigger :D

[mike810]

I'm a little worried. I plan to run a bean animal drain with the dream box. I request RE to end the drain lines 1" below the water level inside the drain compartment. I just noticed that the drain lines actually end 3-4" below the water line instead of the 1". Do you guys foresee any problems with back pressure when running a full siphon drain?

I don't think there is a way to remove the drain lines and cut them shorter once the box has been assembled.

[slief]

I'm a little worried. I plan to run a bean animal drain with the dream box. I request RE to end the drain lines 1" below the water level inside the drain compartment. I just noticed that the drain lines actually end 3-4" below the water line instead of the 1". Do you guys foresee any problems with back pressure when running a full siphon drain?

I don't think there is a way to remove the drain lines and cut them shorter once the box has been assembled.

That should not be an issue at all. There will be a constant vacuum in there due to the water overflowing out of it and having it go down deeper should be just fine. Having installed tanks with similar drain setups, I usually have the sump intake lines go virtually all the way to the bottom of the intake overflow box.

[mike810]

That is very reassuring. My tank will be using the synergy overflow box so not much room before it begins to overflow. On a 8 ft tank, it would be hard to keep an eye on the external overflow and a hand in the return pump cord.

[ClownsRCoo]

It'll be fine, I have no issues with mine draining that far below the water level. I do wish that section was accessible to be able to clean it though


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[mike810]

I agree, that section should be accessible for cleaning or to simply change out bulkheads.

[danrobberg]

I have a synergy reef overflow and run a bean animal into my dreambox with not problems

[slief]

It'll be fine, I have no issues with mine draining that far below the water level. I do wish that section was accessible to be able to clean it though


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

I agree, that section should be accessible for cleaning or to simply change out bulkheads.

For what it's worth, when I designed my sump and fuge (not Dreamboxes unfortunately), I made the sock overflow compartment accessible and in hindsight, I wish I hadn't. There is a lot of turbulence in there and I get salt creep around the edges of it as a result. That said, because of the turbulence and flow going into the overflow compartment, detritus has never been in an issue. My sump is made from acrylic and I've never cleaned those compartment in the 7 years since installing it and I have two of those compartments. Each with a single drain line where as the Dreambox has a single compartment with multiple drainlines. There is absolutely no detritus or anything in there other than some sponges growing on the side walls. They are always clean and the Dreamboxes will be no different as that is a small compartment with a lot of flow going through it.

[slief]

The bulkhead size concern is understandable but those aren't bulkheads. On the smaller dreamboxes, there are the red pipes that are run through it. On the larger Dreamboxes with the unions, they are special unions that don't have a nut the underside. The hole into the dreambox is CNC'd out and the unions backside is glued into the dreambox. If one needed to increase the size, the hole could be routed out and a new PVC pipe inserted with a union on the top side. The issue I could see is that those pipes are fairly close together. I usually advise people to go as large as possible on the drains. It's easy to reduce the intake diameter using a reducer inside the unions bushing and since those bushings can be replaced, if you ever needed to go larger with the drain intakes, it would be a matter of getting new bushings which are usually in stock.

[ClownsRCoo]

That's a good point about the high flow in the inlet of the sump and you are right anything in it probably gets blown right out.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[mike810]

How are you guys mounting float switches to the dream boxes? My old float switches were attached to brackets that went up and over the sump wall.

[slief]

How are you guys mounting float switches to the dream boxes? My old float switches were attached to brackets that went up and over the sump wall.

Personally, I like having my float switches mounted to cheap magnetic scrubbers. I use ones from Reef Fanatic that have a removable bracket on them which I epoxy to the scrubber. This makes it easy to raise or lower the float switches when you adjust your water level. Some people mount the float switches to probe holders.

http://i390.photobucket.com/albums/oo347/shleif/Tanks/topoff/image_zps9gu7haof.jpg

http://i390.photobucket.com/albums/oo347/shleif/Tanks/topoff/image_zps053dd0b1.jpg

http://i390.photobucket.com/albums/oo347/shleif/Tanks/topoff/c75d2aa0-36b5-4eb2-b344-cfc61201fdd2_zpsj6npaitn.jpg

[Klaus Jansen]

@Slief ..

Do not touch ..... Wife, Cat or Dog ? :D

best regards ... Klaus

[slief]

@Slief ..

Do not touch ..... Wife, Cat or Dog ? :D

best regards ... Klaus

:lolspin:

[ReefKeeper64]

Following along

[Shredded]

@Mike810 Beautiful box. I probably missed details but what size is it and what are your return pumps?

Marco and Scott, I am getting ready to set the tank this weekend! Finally the room is finished. I cannot believe has taken this long but it is close now.

Scott, on the subject of the union, I have the new hole drilled and am ready to glue the union in place, do you know if the factory installed unions are glued using PVC solvent cement or other? I want this to look identical to where you can't tell it was not made this way.

Attached some pics. Just grouted the floor and hung the grid work last weekend.

[slief]

@Mike810 Beautiful box. I probably missed details but what size is it and what are your return pumps?

Marco and Scott, I am getting ready to set the tank this weekend! Finally the room is finished. I cannot believe has taken this long but it is close now.

Scott, on the subject of the union, I have the new hole drilled and am ready to glue the union in place, do you know if the factory installed unions are glued using PVC solvent cement or other? I want this to look identical to where you can't tell it was not made this way.

Attached some pics. Just grouted the floor and hung the grid work last weekend.
They use PVC solvent and my even be heat welded on the back side similar to how the seams are done. PVC solvent should be fine but I would use the thick stuff if you can find it.

Looking great! Can't wait to see that thing come together!