I'm using the laguna 2900 in my 80g tank. It replaced my ocean runner 2500 that had restart problems and wasn't giving me the flow I wanted. The laguna starts up every time without issue, gives me great flow, and runs silent. I can't hear it unless my skimmer is off and even then it's quiet. I feed my chiller and use it as my return pump. I'm getting about 1000gph after about 10ft of head pressure. I'm using 1" flexible tubing and could probably get more flow if I used 1.5" tubing. I took it out of its cage and have it lying bare with the output facing upwards. I found that the intake can be fitted with a 3/4" bulkhead slip strainer. It's not a super tight fit, but never had any problems with it getting loose and falling out. I'm sure just the suction from the intake of water keeps it firmly planted in place. Remember, this is with the 2900 and not the 1500 you intend to buy. The intake may be a different size.