Brainstorm with me - 40G Stretch Hex Revamp

[Louis]

Well I'm pretty bored with my tank so I've decided to turn it into an SPS dominant system. This tank is a very low tech setup that's been running for about 2 years. Here is a shot of the tank in it's corner.



This tank has no skimmer and is run with only a HOB Emperor 400 filter. I've had a bit of algae recently due to me neglecting the system for a few weeks.



Tank: Oceanic 40G Stretch Hex
Stand: Oceanic Cherry Stand
Lighting: Coralife 250W HQI

I really want to push this tank to the limits. Here are some ideas I have.

Drill for drains - not sure which style.

Drill for closed loop - possibly 4-way oceans motions?

Build custom sump - this is a tough one because of the odd shape of the stand.

Protein Skimmer - open to suggestions, leaning towards bubble magus or octopus?

I will have to find room for
Zeovit System
Top off reservoir
Media Reactor -BRS-Dual GFO/Rox
RKL
2 part dosing solution

I'm very interested in hearing about the experience of others before I begin modifying my tank.

Let's start with drain styles and closed-loop hole placement since this will be where I start once I break down the tank.

 

[bz350]

for the money cant go wrong with a SRO 2000. i love mine. the BRS reactors are quality as well.

might want to look into kalk. makes it easy for me to maintain my calcium and ALK. for the small load that i have.

 

[Louis]

Kalk would probably be easier and would save some space. Do you use a reactor? How do you dose?