New MSX or used Vertex?

[PDAlber]

I'm planning on puchasing a skimmer for my 90 gallon mixed reef. The question is, do I go with a used MSX 160 or a new Vertex IN100? Both are in the $200 range. Both will fit in my sump. I don't want to spend much more money and I don't have room for anything bigger. Which one should I get?

 

[FoxyFace]

Vertex skimmer

Vertex skimmer

I just bought a Vertex 180 skimmer about 3 weeks ago. I really like it. Super easy to maintain and set. I don't like to monkey around with stuff all the time.

 

[ellevan11]

Both are great skimmers. I have had a vertex for about a month now and i am really happy with it. You cant really make a bad choice here. Depending on your bioload, the MSX is rated for a larger system, so think about that.

 

[stever07]

I have the IN-100. In my opinion nothing can compare in the pricerange. Skimmed right out of the box.

 

[flame goby]

I've had a MSX 200 on my larger tank and a vertex 80 on my current 65 gal tank and have to say the vertex is easier to maintain as said earlier. I have 2 full skimmer cups each week and with the msx it was very comparable. I dont really think you can go wrong at all. Toughest part is pulling the trigger, but when you do, dont look back at all either way.

 

[Mr. Thingdoer]

I don't have experience with the MSX, but would definitely recommend the Vertex

 

[tpenn187]

i have no experience with the vertex, but they seem nice. i have used msx and octo extreme, and i just upgraded and went with another octo extreme. they are really nice skimmers and i would recommend them to anyone.

 

[dwilly]

I have the Vertex IN 100 on my 75 and I love it! Very quiet and easy to set up and use. I had the original Octopus 200 and it was a lot of work and very inconsistent. If you are looking at the original 160, not the extreme, the Vertex kills it. Also, you have to consider any potential issues with it being used. The customer service on the Vertex is great (I bought mine from premium aquatics) and it has a 1 year warranty.

 

[Amoore311]

Here's my MSX 160's productions on my 90 Gallon after 3 days.

And this is the typical amount of neck turd I get in the same amount of time:

 

[ryshark]

Am I suposed to be wearing gloves when I touch that"turd" stuff? I'm sure both of those skimmers would be good. I would rather buy new if the choice was mine.

 

[Amoore311]

I always where gloves, who knows what kind of nasty garbage is in that skimmer crap. Wouldn't want any of that getting into an open cut or anything.