Mp10's for 135?

[der_wille_zur_macht]

The 12v Koralias need a variable-frequency AC drive, not just variable-voltage. Running them on a rheostat will end in failure. AC pumps are inherently "harder" to control than DC, and the DC Tunze products have the advantage of coming with a driver that just needs a 0-8v DC signal, so you don't even have to design a driver, just come up with a way to generate the signal.

On large tanks with closed loops it's arguable that a "large" wet end fitted with a 3-phase motor and a VFD is cheaper/more capable than a bunch of powerheads but powerheads have the advantage that you can just stick them on a running tank without redesigning from scratch.

 

[mr.maroonsalty]

I didn't know that about the the hydors; I see 12v, and I click DC.

I'm looking at the watts used by high flow powerheads against the super quiet externals, and am having a hard time justifying a cl.

 

[jaybfresh]

Mike, I would also go for 1 mp40w and use a K3 on the other side. One possibility- I have seen a bunch of mp40w drivers for sale cheap as people upgrade to the new ecosmart driver. You can buy an mp20 and upgrade it to an mp40w with one of those drivers and save some $$$

 

[der_wille_zur_macht]

I'm looking at the watts used by high flow powerheads against the super quiet externals, and am having a hard time justifying a cl.

I agree. Going with a closed loop was pretty much the only place I let myself splurge on watts.

 

[zooman72]

While I agree that these Vortech pumps are quite expensive, let us put them in another context. Coral reefs typically require 6 (technically 7) things: light, water flow, temp. & salinity, food, calcium, and bicarbonate (via Borneman). I find it odd that we will often invest heavily in lighting systems and dosing systems, but hesitate to consider a proportional investment towards flow, especially the type of flow provided by these pumps. Are they absolutely necessary for success - no, but neither are some of the more "high-end" lights we employ. They should be considered a luxury - just like this entire hobby.

 

[mr86mister]

Nicely put zooman. I know that Koralia's die rather quickly when they aren't constantly run. I guess I will save up and get an MP40w and put it on one end with a K4 placed somewhere needed. I am just going to buy one new so for if I have any trouble I have all the paperwork and it's all under my name.

 

[sg1838]

Mike,

Don't forget about what Jay stated - I am pretty certain that the MP20 motor / wetside is EXACTLY the same as the MP40, the difference being the intelligent driver of the MP40w. All sorts of people are upgrading to the new EcoSmart driver which gives you more control, but does not make the pump flow any more than the existing driver that I, and most existing MP40 users currently have. People are selling off their old drivers, and it is literally a simple plug-and-play operation to hook up the driver to the pump.

I would seriously consider buying an MP20 and a used MP40w driver if you can find a good deal on one. I would think it would be a buyer's market right now with everyone trying to upgrade.

If you do go this route, just make sure that you get a Gen2 driver, as my understanding is there were some issues with the Gen1 firmware (you can upgrade them, but I think only by sending the units back to EcoTech).

 

[pimpinitup6969]

The power supply is also different between the mp20 and mp40 so that wouldnt work unless you buy one from ecotech. I think the power supply alone is about $50. I would just wait until you can buy a new vortech with the ecosmart.

 

[jaybfresh]

Well, in the used market an MP20 is around $175. The MP40w drivers are hovering at about $50. With a power supply thats about $275 for a full MP40w. But as Mike said, its also good to buy new and know you have the full warranty.

 

[pimpinitup6969]

Yeah and if i were gonna buy an mp40 i would want the most up to date driver for the investment.

 

[mr86mister]

All of you have some awesome points but I guess if I were to get one it might as well be all out. I have one of the best light setups possible, why not help my corals and get one of the best powerheads possible. I'll just give it some time. Wait a few more weeks save up some money and get a new MP40w with the Eco. As I have read everywhere it is very much worth it and the worst out of it is the humming from the pump at full blast. That won't be an issue with me.

I'm also interested In knowing what mode works for everyone. I know it will be fun to play with it all but it would be cool to see who uses what.

 

[mr86mister]

Well I picked up a new Mp40w today. Great price for these guys because of the new ES. I might upgrade eventually. We will see. But man this thing can move some water!!!