Myka
Reefing since '93
I have a new system in the design phase. Tank is 69 gallons display, total volume 105 gallons without displacement. Exclusively SPS.
I have a few skimmer options, and I'm wondering if anyone with high-end skimmer experience has some input. First off, I'm in Canada, so we don't have access to as many brands as those in the US or Europe.
I have several skimmers right now. Vertex IN-180 and IN-250, SWC Xtreme Cone 120 and 180. I have plenty of experience with Bubble Magus and Bubble King too, but don't own any. All of these skimmers are fairly middle of the road with the exception of the Bubble Kings.
I really like the reviews and looks of the Vertex Alpha 170 and 200 with the new Vertex pumps (hopefully they are better than the IN pumps!). I'm not sure if the 200 would be too big for my system volume - if it would be able to produce consistent skimmate. I see lots of people using the 170 on systems this size. For $100 difference, I'll use whichever is best. This is the first question.
Here's the big question though, with all the skimmer mods out there, is there something I can do with one of my current Vertex IN or SWC Cones that would provide me with superior performance to that of the Vertex Alpha? Electrical consumption is something I consider too. I'm not scared of DIY mods or putting out money on a replacement pump, BUT I don't want to do that if it won't outperform the Vertex Alpha.
I'm thinking I'll be buying an Alpha, but before I do that...any thoughts? My budget one way or another is $1000.
I have a few skimmer options, and I'm wondering if anyone with high-end skimmer experience has some input. First off, I'm in Canada, so we don't have access to as many brands as those in the US or Europe.
I have several skimmers right now. Vertex IN-180 and IN-250, SWC Xtreme Cone 120 and 180. I have plenty of experience with Bubble Magus and Bubble King too, but don't own any. All of these skimmers are fairly middle of the road with the exception of the Bubble Kings.
I really like the reviews and looks of the Vertex Alpha 170 and 200 with the new Vertex pumps (hopefully they are better than the IN pumps!). I'm not sure if the 200 would be too big for my system volume - if it would be able to produce consistent skimmate. I see lots of people using the 170 on systems this size. For $100 difference, I'll use whichever is best. This is the first question.
Here's the big question though, with all the skimmer mods out there, is there something I can do with one of my current Vertex IN or SWC Cones that would provide me with superior performance to that of the Vertex Alpha? Electrical consumption is something I consider too. I'm not scared of DIY mods or putting out money on a replacement pump, BUT I don't want to do that if it won't outperform the Vertex Alpha.
I'm thinking I'll be buying an Alpha, but before I do that...any thoughts? My budget one way or another is $1000.
