MP20's in a 4' 120?

[NigerBang]

I am plotting on replacing my 3 K4's with a pair of MP20's. The question is if placed on each side facing each other, would the flow be enough? The tank is a 4' 120 with a mixture of SPS and LPS. I would do the MP40's but the wife is more understanding on the cost of 2 20's rather than 2 40's, Although it seems I can get used MP40's for the same price as MP20's new.

 

[DarG]

If you're gonna pay 600 bucks you may as well pay 800

Personally, Id shell out the extra for the 40's but thats just my opinion.

 

[NigerBang]

Thats what Im leaning towards also..

 

[luther1200]

I have 1 MP20 and 1 K3 in my 65 and its OK. I want another MP20. But in a tank your size, even with some LPS I would get the MP40's.

 

[GQuinn]

I agree, I would get the MP40. I use a MP20 on my 36" long tank and I like the flow, but 48" long you will want more.

Gary

 

[NigerBang]

yeah.. What I have decided to do is go with a single MP40w and hold on to a K4 incase I need an extra boost behind the rocks and such..

 

[kkdoughboy]

So the concensus is (2) MP20's facing each other in a 48" long tank isn't enough power? Gosh I would think that would be plenty. Hmmm

 

[NigerBang]

I would rather go with the MP40 and have to turn it down instead of worrying about cranking 2 20's up and being disapointed with the results..

 

[jthomps123]

I have a single MP40 in my 75. If i wasnt upgrading to a new tank I would definately desire another MP40 on the other side to compliment the first.

 

[Mike31154]

Started with one MP40 in my 75 over a year ago and recently added a second. I have the two dialed down a little which will improve the wear & tear, provide better flow throughout the tank and lower the pump noise level somewhat, although I don't find the sound to be much of a problem. I think your idea of getting a single MP40 and supplementing with the K4s as required is a very good one. This will allow you to get a good feel for the capabilities of the VorTech and when budget permits, you can go for a second MP40, spread the cost over time. Worked for me.

 

[DarG]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15514750#post15514750 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Mike31154
Started with one MP40 in my 75 over a year ago and recently added a second. I have the two dialed down a little which will improve the wear & tear, provide better flow throughout the tank and lower the pump noise level somewhat, although I don't find the sound to be much of a problem. I think your idea of getting a single MP40 and supplementing with the K4s as required is a very good one. This will allow you to get a good feel for the capabilities of the VorTech and when budget permits, you can go for a second MP40, spread the cost over time. Worked for me.

I did the same in a 90. Had one MP40 and ran a Koralia as well. Added a second 40 later on.

 

[RichK]

Ditto on the 2 MP40Ws. If needed, they can be dialed down a bit, but you will not be able to turn up a MP20 if it isn't enough. One thing I learned in the last 17 years of reefing is to always opt for the larger piece of equipment rather than choose the one to just "get by".

 

[NigerBang]

Thanks for all the replys.. That is what I was planning.. Use the K4 until I can spare the extra for another mp40 later on and cut them back if needed..

Thanks again guys!

 

[Flatlander]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15513088#post15513088 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by kkdoughboy
So the concensus is (2) MP20's facing each other in a 48" long tank isn't enough power? Gosh I would think that would be plenty. Hmmm

Not even close IMO. I have one in my little cube and adding another as I dont have enough flow with it and my Ocean Runner 2500 return pump. I had to run a Hydor 1200 with it, so going with another MP 20.

And agree, the best thing is there adjustable flow rate, so I would run 40,s in a 4ft tank or at least one 40 and something else. My friend runs two 40,s in his 5ft tank, along with his return.

Mind you now, these are sps tanks, his and mine. I think in my case, my tank would be fine with one, if softies and/or lps, depending on the amount from the return.

 

[DEERE G]

I have 2 MP40's in my 4' 120 gal. on opposite ends. I also Have a modded MJ 1200 pointing straight down in the back. The MP40's are running wide open in "reefcrest" mode. The flow is nice.

 

[maynardjames]

have one 40 in my 120. need another just dont have the funds.
i wouldnt go with the 20`s if i were you. i have a 3 & 4 koralia running to take up the slack in mine. try & get 2 used 40`s. i think you will be glad you did

 

[NigerBang]

Yeah.. Im picking up a 40 over the weekend and keeping one of the 4's until I can pony up the money for a second Mp40..

 

[Mike31154]

Having an MP40 at each end of the tank not only benefits those with SPS dominated tanks. It helps stir up stuff you never knew was in all the nooks and crannies in your LR structure. With the single MP40, the far end of my tank was always a bit of a dead zone with more crud collecting there. Much less to clean up these days and nuisance algae is receding more and more as time passes. It's like boosting the filtration capacity of your LR and substrate.

 

[NigerBang]

Def. going with the 2 mp40's.. Money at the time only permited 1 right now.. Going to run a K4 on the opposing end until I can get the money for the second.. Ordered it yesterday.. hoping to be here monday or tuesday.. Anyone want to contribute to the Ansley poverty fund and send me another lol..

 

[pecan2phat]

I use a closed loop with an OM-4way and revs but recently added two MP40w to increase random flow in my 4 feet 120g tank.
I have Vortechs on my 180g and they are place on the ends in the usual configuration. With the 120g since the CL was the initial main source of flow, I decided to place them on the back of the tank. I'm able to do this since it's an inwall and I have a center overflow. Really loving this placement and the flow is not overwhelming with only 2' from back to front. They are not as noticeable when placed on the back wall.