low irron glass

[magdelan]

For the new 24"x24"x24" 60g cube that I am planning, I have considered going starphire. However, the cost is almost three times that of a non starphire tank. I need this tank to be crystal clear while viewing through it. It will essentially be a peninsula. I'm not sure of the exact width of the glass, but it is either 3/8 or 1/2. How noticeable would the glass of a stock tank be?

 

[jdoenumber2]

Its noticable. If money were not an issue I would go low iron.

 

[Eastamherstbias]

I was told the last time that I wanted it that it scratches easy and it is not worth the upcharge so I was talked down from getting it.

 

[RyanEG]

From what Ive seen with 1/2" and under glass the only hugely noticeable difference is from viewing the ends of the glass panes on the corners. There is a little difference but not enough to make it worthwhile. In larger tanks or rimless where they use thicker glass ie. 3/4" it does make a difference.

 

[Capt_Cully]

Personally, I don't think its worth it. I didn't get it on my new tank, though it was an option. They certainly are nice, but I couldn't justify the cost.

 

[Gary Majchrzak]

Randy @ ARC was showing me comparisons between low iron glass and standard a few years ago. I think we were comparing 40 breeders. In any case, IMO the low iron glass wasn't worth the expense.

It might be worth considering low iron if you're talking 1/2" thick glass, but you still need to reckon with the fact that it scratches more easily.

Keep in mind that all my aquarium pix are taken through 1/2" standard glass.
Low iron glass just isn't a priority for me.

 

[magdelan]

I didn't realize that it scratches easier. This is not a risk that I want to worry about. Thanks for the info.

 

[Capt_Cully]

With little ones in the mix, its worth considering. Whens "#2" due Mike?

 

[GMaquarium]

I see a huge difference in the glass ADA tanks are made out of. Very pricey little tanks. In terms of larger tanks its not that big of difference, at least with marineland tanks.

 

[Capt_Cully]

I think it was $300-400 more for my DD tank. Not 3x tank's cost, but over my budget.

There was a philosophic aspect to my decision as well. If the reef is good enough no one will notice the glass. Sort of a challenge to myself. But I digress. It certainly is nice stuff if you have the means.