Dreaded skimmer thread

[alabrew]

What recommendations do y'all have for a new skimmer for my 120 (total vol. ~ 150)

Currently, I am using a Berlin Turbo left over from the 90 gal. It is listed as only 75 gal. for SPS 125 gal for LPS and 220 for FO. So using those numbers, I believe that I am going to need something rated about 450 gal., but note that the cone skimmers seem to be rated at their SPS load rating. I do like that the cones use lower wattage pumps.

Doing some research, I have come to understand that big skimmers seem to be over $1/ rated gal. so I am prepared for a big bill, but want to get the best skimmer for my application for the $$$$. I do not foresee any increase in tank size in the near or far future.

Skimmers I am considering:

Octopus Extreme Model 300
http://www.premiumaquatics.com/Merc...Product_Code=CV-EXT-300&Category_Code=Octopus

Ext. Skimmer 2/2x9000 Sedra pumps
http://www.premiumaquatics.com/Merc...Product_Code=CI-IS-8E&Category_Code=Clearance

Cone type:

Eshopps Cone Skimmer
http://www.premiumaquatics.com/Merc...Product_Code=CI-00URC&Category_Code=Clearance

SWC Xtreme Cone Skimmer
http://www.premiumaquatics.com/Merc...ct_Code=SWC-MINI-CONE&Category_Code=Clearance

i-Tech 200 Cone
http://reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=1667864

KZ Revolution S
http://www.premiumaquatics.com/Merc...&Product_Code=KZ-CS-S&Category_Code=Clearance



It is all so confusing. I also read the article http://www.advancedaquarist.com/2009/1/aafeature2 that compared several skimmers and seemed to come to the conclusion that there isn't much difference between any of them.

Plusses, minuses, cautions, recommendations...

Kim

 

[KniLLifer]

For a 120 Gallon/150 Total volume get the Octopus Extreme Model 250 or the MSX 250 from Marinesolutionsinc.com
Those would be my choices.

 

[alabrew]

Thanks for the suggestions KniLLifer

After posting I looked again at the Octopus 250 and figured that it would work, 2" smaller diameter than the 300 (and $60 cheaper)

I also was reading a skimmer thread today about the MSX skimmers. It was really about cones but also discussed if the cone shape had much of any effect or was the popularity just because it was "new" technology.

The MSX looks like the best value of the two. The 300 is on sale for only $20 more than the 250 - is it too big?

 

[KniLLifer]

I would say that its a little big. My friend runs the 300 on a 180 and id does a fantastic job. On our 120's i would really stick to the 250 but for 20 bucks more it would be tempting to get the 300. If you have a full blown SPS tank and feed alot and possibly getting a bigger tank lets say in the next 3 years get the 300. If not I would save even the 20 bucks and get the 250.

I almost just settled for a 200 when I was looking at a new skimmer for my 120 but I never looked passed that 250.

Good luck with whatever decision you make. The MSX skimmers are beasts for the money. I love mine, it was one of the best purchases that I have made for my tank.

See ya

 

[The0wn4g3]

The MSX Skimmers are definitely beastly. You won't be disappointed.
But, it's tough for me to recommend it over the Ext. Skimmer w/2x9000 Sedra Pump. Here's why:
The 2x9000 sedra skimmer has almost 5" in height over MSX, and IMO that's a world of difference. Yea, the MSX has the sicce pumps, but you can't argue with the results of the ASM skimmers running sedras, and they aren't even recirculating. Also, the MSX has a much wider neck (5"?) whereas the 2x9000 sedra has ~3.5" neck. I would personally rather have 5" in height than ~2" in the neck. Overall, it's a very close called, but if I had to buy on right at this moment, I'd get the MSX.

On the 300 vs. 250 subject, from what I know, the only difference is the 2" larger diameter reaction chamber. Is this going to make $60 worth of difference on a 150 gallon system? Probably not at all. Will it make a $20 difference? Why of course .

I almost bought an MSX 200, but I ended up getting a sweet deal on my DAS EX-2 and I have to say, for a relatively less popular model, it does some serious work.

I wouldn't even think about a cone skimmer. I haven't seen any proof that they perform better, and their prices are just outrageous. Go with that MSX 250/300. They're sweeeeeeet.

 

[alabrew]

Thanks for the input.

I ordered the MSX 250. They offer a 4" cup extension for more height (I didn't get it - $99) so it could be the best of both worlds of the thoughts that TheOwn4g3 posed of his preference of a taller skimmer.

I think the Berlin knows its days are numbered, it has started skimming like crazy the past two days (my cleaning it could of helped.)