Skimmer decision help for 180g

[james30ct]

Which would you choose?
Eshopps s300
bubble magus curve 7
Reef Octopus Diablo XS225
or aquamaxx cones co-2
Looking for the best overall option in the $300 range. Any input is helpful.

 

[EricGRIT]

I'm using the Aquamaxx ConeS CO-3 on my 180g and loving it.

 

[worm5406]

I have a SRO3000EXT on a 180+120.

I had a Reef Octopus DDNW250 Dual 10” Recirculating Protein Skimmer before that on just the 180 by its self.

 

[james30ct]

Thanks for the input. Anyone else have suggestions/experiences?

 

[mandarin417]

I just converted from a contemporary skimmer to a tried and true venturi like I had 18 years ago from LifeReef.com. I forgot how well those skimmers performed and how easy they are to maintain. Jeff is a terrific person to work with if you have any questions or need recommendations. I have a SVS3-24 driven by a Sicce Silent Synca 5 on my 160ish gallon system. Jeff's design makes the skimmer very quiet. The only issue I have is vibration noise from the pump connected with vinyl tubing to the skimmer. I am going to replace that short piece of tubing with a silicone tube from BRS. Thanks Dennis (d2mini) for turning me on to lifereef!

See this thread: http://reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?t=2399643&highlight=lifereef

 

[Tradewinds]

I'm using an Aquamax EM-200 on my 180, which is working well. I like it because it can be completely disassembled for cleaning.

Do you have unlimited space or is it going under inside a stand?

 

[james30ct]

its going under a stand. 28" of clearance.

 

[Dmorty217]

My 220g has a SRO 5000 on it and it will skim some sh*t

 

[james30ct]

Do you think the aquamaxx cones co3 is too much for a 180g or should I go with the co2? It says the co2 is for tanks up to 350g.

 

[q8fish]

I'm using Aquamaxx and its working great, but if you would like to have my opinion, go for Vertex, I wish I bought Vertex instead of Aquamaxx.

first the quality and finishing of Vertex its much higher.

Second Vertex have an input to insert your Ozone in the Skimmer, Aquamaxx don't have this option.

So in my opinion go for Vertex

 

[ReefSalt]

I like the Reef Octopus SRO series( own a SRO5000), and a SRO 3000 would be good for your setup. Recently I have seen a several with the JNS/AquaMaxx Co-3 and really like the skimmer and its a solid performer, So I ordered the new ConeS CO-5.

My choice would be the CO-3 AquaMaxx for your tank.

 

[james30ct]

Is jns the same as aquamaxx? They look identical.

 

[jason2459]

Is jns the same as aquamaxx? They look identical.

The very same. and the cones co3 would work great.

The sro 3000 ext or int with a neck extender would be good to. (note the sss version does not have a neck extender that would fit it. )

Edit: just looked at what they were rating the co3 and looks like 500g. That's extremely over rated for that skimmer. For a 180 you'll want at least an 8" body cone or cylinder and at least 900lph of air draw from a good reliable pump.

 

[jason2459]

Aquamaxx EM300 is another good option

http://www.marinedepot.com/AquaMaxx...in_Skimmers-AquaMaxx-UJ00161-FIPSISNW-vi.html

 

[ghellin]

Loving my new SRO 3000int on my 180.