Jeff: I tried a triple pumped needle -wheel driven re-circulating skimmer that was rated for my size system, but....I don't know, I just could not get the quanity/quality of stuff out of it that the Beckett based skimmers do. I think there is a reasonable size range of tanks or space requirements that the needle wheel jobs are better suited for. Example:
Under a tank, in a stand - where space is limited, and the need for very quite operation is of high importance. Or if total energy consumption is a high priority - then the needle wheel skimmers are a good bet.
*BUT* - if you are "drag-race oriented" then more horse power wins! And Becketts - tho they are power hungry, just WORK.......tho they require more horse power, and by that measure may not be considered as efficient - yet the quanity/quality of skimate is better for my experience.
Gtaylor-
Lighting:
I am planning a "tri-fecta" of lighting. I have an Aquatinics 60" - 2- 250 watt 10K mogul w/2 54 watt T-5 Actinics. As well, I have 2 - 48" - 6 bulb T-5 Nova Extreme Pro fixtures with a mix of bulbs.
Then there are the Simu- Sticks that are connected to teh GHL Profi-Lux computer controller. These are 2 ft. tubes that have LEDs in them, and create storms, and cloud simulations.
Yeah...I am nutz...I know
All the lights fit into an aluminum frame that I drew up and had a local welder put together for me. I am ordering a lift mechanism that will allow me to raise and lower it via remote control, as it is just a little too heavy to manually raise and lower.
More pics later....stay tuned!
T
