Getting back into SPS keeping(none zeo this time)bit of help?

[davidgnome]

So I am trying to plan a new reef tank, as I sold my zeovit 90 gallon about 5 months ago. This tank I would like to be colorful but less maintence then the zeo method. I dont mind dosing some but stirring stones everyday, and dosing multiple things a day is a bit much for my family life.
The new system I am wanting to go with will be 120-180gallon. Undecided between these two sizes, as cost with a 120 is similar to a 90 especially in a 4foot ati fixture as oppose to a 6 or 8 foot fixture if i went with a 180 gallon. Make sense I hope.
Some advice would be greatly appreciated. (hoping those of you who have kept sps/mixed reefs with great colors and health can help out a bit)

So first thoughts and someone else tell me their thoughts or even post links of others builds/reefs.

1. I was thinking of doing a sump connected to refugium..? anyone doing this with great success.(prolly mangroves, chateo, over sized skimmer which ill mention later)

2. Miracle mud refugium(ecosystem)

3. ATS(algae turf scrubber)

Any unseen problems doing all of the above? And also any additions that you guys would know that work better?

Would be open to adding-np biopellets(alltho im not 100% i feel safe withthem) -Any reactors that would be helpful to have. Please only base off of what you know is true..Also I dont really wanna wait very long to add sps. I would wait 3 months, but not a year.

Thanks for any help or ideas.

 

[Reef Frog]

Miracle Mud is certaily not a requirement. I'd be afraid of nutrient issues down the road. Good salt will give you the trace minerals you need. My opinion only, others will not agree.

I'd invest in top notch in tank powerheads plus the very best test kits for PH, calc, alk, mag, PO4 & NO4 but most ex-Zeos probably have them. I'd consider having a GFO reactor at the ready to nip any algae infestation in the bud, or run HAC in if when needed. Good lighting too but you already know that. Good luck!

 

[davidgnome]

I was under the impresion that miracle mud doesnt only filter water, but puts back essential (minerals?) for fish health.?? that would be my reasoning for that as well as Ive read it helps maintain great fish coloration..? anyone know if this is true and for that reason worthy of consideration.