Long time away, tank questions

[punkncat]

Back in '11 I sold off everything I had related to tanks, reef, aquaria. Where I know this forum is salt related, I wanted to ask of the forum some advice.

I am looking to set up a 50 gallon (36x18) freshwater display tank. In my previous life's professional experiences there was really only one brand to consider. Oceanic.
I come to find that the company that owns that brand 'nixed' it in lieu of their cheaper line. My hunt through that product line reflects that quality. The Big Box Store versions of what used to be fish stores only carry cheapo rigs, small tanks, iron stands, and (EEK) particle wood.

Where would one go about finding a quality fit/finish, thick glass aquarium, and a real honest to gosh wooden stand and trim ring any more?

In addition, is there a recommended canister filter setup worthwhile any more?
I have used from pleated filter models, to Fluval 101 iirc, etc. Any recommends would be appreciated.

 

[Valentini89]

I would check your LFS for a price on a tank and stand. They might even give you a discount on certain things if you buy everything from them. Also I would ditch the canister idea.

 

[lpsouth1978]

....Also I would ditch the canister idea.

I disagree, We are talking about a freshwater tank. Canister filters have long been a staple in freshwater systems. I have used one on all of my tanks (freshwater) for as long as I can remember. However, I also use HOB Biowheel filters on mine, and WAY overfilter by most standards. I currently have a 55g community tank with 2 x Marineland Penguin 350 Biowheel HOB filters, and a Fluval 406 Canister. I have been quite happy with my canister, it is easy to maintain and does a fantastic job.

As for the tanks, IMO the tanks that the big box stores carry are fine up to about 75g. I would be more hesitant to buy a larger tank from them due to the risk of failure. If you want something different, I would talk to your LFS and see if they can order something in for you. Deep Blue makes some nice, quality tanks.

And for the stand, your best bet is to build one, or find one used online. There are some pre-built, quality stands available, but they are quite spendy. Again, just my opinion.

 

[punkncat]

Yup, within the last couple of years all the independent fish stores that I am aware of closed. That leaves the "Wal Mart of Fish" type places that I really hesitate to buy from. Not only do they stock the lowest common denominator in tanks and equipment, but also fish. Nothing out of the ordinary, and half of them have Ick you can see, fin rot, etc....and their wall systems are connected.

IDK, this idea may die crib death.

 

[punkncat]

Yup, within the last couple of years all the independent fish stores that I am aware of (nearby) closed. That leaves the "Wal Mart of Fish" type places that I really hesitate to buy from. Not only do they stock the lowest common denominator in tanks and equipment, but also fish. Nothing out of the ordinary, and half of them have Ick you can see, fin rot, etc....and their wall systems are connected.

IDK, this idea may die crib death.

 

[punkncat]

Lol, well...didn't mean to do that.

 

[zaitmi]

i use canister filter..its fine if you keep cleaning on monthly basis. Also try marine pure.

 

[MuShu]

Fluval 406 seems to be a good, reliable canister in freshwater. I'm running an Eheim pro on my 55 reef and have not had the canister issues that a lot of people seem to have when running a canister in salt.

There are several companies that build glass tanks to spec if you want thicker glass or low-iron. You can build your own stand much cheaper and at a much better quality. I see that you are in McDonough. Contact Southern Aquatics in Roswell- they have a person who builds stands that they work with. They cater to freshwater and saltwater people.