New Setup question, Red Sea

[Joek86]

I've been out of the loop on this stuff for 5 years and I'm ready to jump back in. I'm looking at the Redsea Max set up, their largest midsize which is a 54 gal actual tank size. I'm also looking at the reefer in the next size larger. The reefer has a in cabinet sump the smaller max has the sump built into the back and has a skimmer integrated into it.

What are the pros and cons of these systems in general? Should I just build a system from separate parts?
Is the rear sump/skimmer ok?

Any other thoughts or suggestions?

 

[vetdog]

I recently set up the RedSea MaxE260 and I love it. I have other set ups but love how stream lined this one is. Especially happy with how easy it is to maintain. The Hydra lights are perfect for this set up. The skimmer takes a bit to get it dialed in but once you do its actually efficient.

 

[mcgyvr]

A tank with a separate sump in general will give you more flexibility over an all in one (changing skimmers, more room usually, not even running a sump if you want, etc...)

An all in one tank (rear sump section) is more limited/typically smaller/less room,etc... but not as complex of a system as you don't have the extra plumbing/concerns of a sump down below..

Its really all about space and what you plan to do and what other equipment (if any) you want specifically..

Some choose to buy a complete system and others build their own from individual parts/tanks/stands,etc... choice is yours and many times dictated by your budget and skill level.. (those that can't build..buy... and usually pay more for it )

 

[tinfoilsoldier]

I bought a used RSM 250 from a friend. We have a LifeReef overflow box and the tank is connected to a 40b sump in the basement underneath the tank.

The back of the tank is mostly wasted since it was made for doing all the filtration but mostly it's just for copepods and feather duster worms at this point.

There is a definite noise difference with the skimmer being in a cabinet or a different room compared to all those bubbles near the back top of your tank only surrounded by plastic. Sumps are also probably easier to clean, the back of my RSM is against the wall and somewhat difficult to get to. Refugiums are pretty sweet, and while I don't know if the reefer has room for one, a sump is going to make having one earlier.

But the self contained nature of a RSM is not to be ignored. Since it is a closed loop you don't have to worry about overflowing the DT with water from the sump. Probably less electricity if the limited size forces you to use less accessories.

We have 2 self contained fluval spec V's for freshwater tanks and the fact that all of it is just right there is definitely cool.