Back from a decade of silence...

[YellowDesmo998]

Hello All,

I've been away from the hobby for some time and am about to jump back in with both feet. Since my last reef setup, a lot has changed for the positive, and I'm eager to learn all over again.

I'm focusing on another mini-reef in the range of 25-45 gallon. During my last go round, I had a Nano Cube after down selecting from a 110g reef setup. The smaller tank worked better for my lifestyle, allowing for a healthier eco system.

What are the desirable smaller all-in-ones on the market today? I see that JBJ is still in the business, along with Aquatop, which I hadn't heard of before until a recent visit to a local shop. With the expectation that I will likely supplement lighting with something from AI or similar, what is recommended?

My plan is some softies, an anemone, and a mated parir of clowns and a cleaner shrimp or two. Nothing too fancy.

Thank you in advance!

 

[griss]

I’ve never done an AIO so, I really can’t give an opinion but welcome back and when you get started, please start a build thread. I love following along with new builds.

 

[Reefing102]

Welcome back!

There’s plenty of brands in the AIO business now. You have the “traditional” brands such as JBJ and Coralife Biocube. Other brands that offer AIO are:

Aquatop (as you mentioned)
Innovative Marine
Waterbox
Cade (I think they have an AIO)
Planet Aquariums Tideline Series
IOAOI (not sure if they delve into the larger AIO)
Waterbox
Fluval
Red Sea (not recommended just based on known leak issues with primarily their larger systems)

Except for RedSea, I can’t say I’ve seen too many issues with many of the above brands, that’s not to say there aren’t any, but yea. Definitely be sure to research each system as some brands offer a tank only option (allowing you to customize everything else from the pump to the light, etc.) others offer the tank and pump and then you pick the light, and others like coralifes Biocube come with everything including (basic) lighting except for maybe a heater, rock and sand.

Hope this helps some!