MACNA Question

[jauld]

Hello all.

I just recently figured out that MACNA will be in Florida this year - totally stoked! Its been always something I have wanted to do since I got into the hobby 5-6 years ago.

Currently I have a 10 gal reef, and I have had a 37 column reef and a 20 long reef. I just moved into my first house this January, and I'm itching for something a little bigger (by itching I mean I have been tirelessly searching the forums and craigslist for a deal lol) now that I have the space to hold it.

My question is this: I know MACNA is known for having phenomenal deals on both livestock and dry goods - Should I wait and buy a tank there (along with all the goodies: lights, sump, powerheads, etc) or should I have everything set to go and just focus on livestock?

Any feedback would be greatly appreciated. Either way its a long way away, but it will give me time to save up or setup.

Thanks!

 

[Fish2reef]

Equipment you do get good deals but nothing compared to the bargains you see here in used equipment, it may take some dealing over the length of the three days or during teardown Sunday.
For livestock like always the best deals are on Sunday; however that sought after frag you may be looking for could be gone by then (personal experience).
The best thing about MACNA is the relationships you develop by meeting and asking questions directly to the manufacturers, being able to touch and compare all brands. I upgraded my tank computer early last year, had two choices (A) and (B) bought (A) after comparing at MACNA Dallas realized (B) is a better fit for me but I am stuck with (A) should have waited.

 

[blackthunda77]

Based on what i saw last year, there is not much Dry Goods selling that takes place. It is more of a show than a swap in that respect. Most dealers will tell you to go to thier websites or thier distributors to buy the product. Some times they have some deals that they offer but the stock is limited, especially on bigger items like tanks, skimmers, lights, etc. Livestock though, obviously thats where its at. Youll find things there you will have a hard time finding locally. Last year was my first show however, so ill let the more experienced guys chime in.

That doesnt however stop you from winning big ticket items at the raffles.

 

[nivram]

The raffle is where it's at

 

[ravedood]

Marvin you won that skimmer last year?

 

[mrx66699]

He wishes ...

 

[blackthunda77]

Actually I believe he did win that one.

 

[AquamanE]

The raffle is where it's at

View attachment 228072

I agree.

But if your not a gambling man, it might be worth it as you can visualize all the items you will need to create you dream tank!

 

[SushiGirl]

There were quite a few tanks in the raffle last year, and quite a few that the people who won them were trying to get rid of because they couldn't get them home LOL. Sadly, most of the display tanks that should have been for sale were snapped up by the local LFSs that were there before the public was made aware they'd be available. They got first pick, in other words, and snapped them up to sell in their stores. There were a few that were promised to individuals that ended up being taken by the LFSs. Maybe it will be different in Florida.

 

[nivram]

Actually I believe he did win that one.

Yes sir! You have to pay to play. But at the end of the day, it only takes one ticket.

Some vendors will have hardware on sale at MACNA. You just need to ask.

 

[MarlinDreams]

It all depends upon your patience level. I waited 6 months until the Dallas show to do anything with my 375+ set up and I am so glad I did. With all of the vendors there, I was able to get almost all of my questions answered and to gauge prices as well. I actually won several raffle items, really wanted that skimmer though. In the end I bought several items there, some on these forums and craigslist. If you have the time I would research as much as possible on what you want, go to the show and then.....
See y'all there in Miami

 

[jauld]

Thanks for all the replies guys - seems my view of the show was a little skewed. I guess everyone is always so excited for the show, some details get exaggerated.

Either way, im definitely looking forward to going. Hopefully I'll find a decent deal on a tank before then, but if not, no worries.

BTW, im looking for a 70-90 cube or a standard 75 (RR of course). If anyone knows someone selling, let me know!