Skimmer for a 120 SPS System

[jroovers]

Just wondering who has had some good success out there with a skimmer for a 120 system. My system is SPS, and I'm looking for an in-sump model. I've decided to swap out my SRO-2000INT as its performance has been less than satisfactory. I don't have a ton of time and need to get something ordered, and can't spend too much time reading about it, if you have recommendations in the $600 or so range, would love to hear it!

 

[fltekdiver]

Reef octopus POV dc2

 

[jroovers]

Will not be getting another RO or Coralvue product due to the performance (or lack thereof) of my current model.

 

[Ted_C]

Reef Dynamics INS180E? Its outside your price range and is "older" tech (i.e. no bubble plate) - but the reviews appear fantastic and the older tech is still proven tech.

 

[Ted_C]

Scratch that... I read some stuff - they are overpriced. Maybe an Avast Skimmer? American Made (at least the acrylic).

 

[n00311]

Reef Octopus Diablo DCS 200

 

[tom obrecht]

I too am in the same boat you are...well kind of I already purchased an ATB for my new to be set up. I did a lot of research and I too wanted to try something other than the RO line. ATB new is out of that price point but I purchased mine used and am close to firing it up. There are more used ones showing up in the selling forum lately. I know Aquamaxx has been a new line getting good reviews, perhaps check them out. The DC pumps do look interesting and I think will be a mainstay in the not too far future so units with those pumps will be a popular suggestion I'm sure. I'll be following along to see what suggestions you get. Good luck!

 

[msmith619]

I am using this:
SCA-303 150 Gallon Protein Skimmer
List Price: $199.99 Sale Price: $129.99
I know it is a Chinese knock-off skimmer but, mine is working better than any skimmer I have used in the past and gets a nice dark green skimate from my 120 gallon with 60 gallon sump.

http://www.scaquariums.com/default.asp
or
http://www.fdaquariumsales.com/

They are one and the same

 

[r1racer]

Vertex Omega 150

 

[tom obrecht]

pm sent

 

[KrazyOnetime]

SWC w/Askoll pump ALL DAY !!!!!! I use a 250a model (since retired & replaced with a cone style by SWC) in my SPS only tank and it's awesome! My second choice would be the SRO w/BB pump, particually the orangeish/red external 5000 unit. JMHO

 

[jroovers]

Hey everyone, thanks for the responses. I'm going to have to do some more reading on the suggested models. I definitely do not want another RO or Coralvue product, that is what I'm trying to move away from. Also, due to my sump being under the tank and taking up most of the useable space, I need an in sump model.

 

[blacktangs]

I too went away from RO skimmers on my 120, however I was not in your budget price and got a bubble magus curve 7. So far it's very quiet, but I don't have a very heavy stock tank. Good luck

 

[Nanook]

No need to go crazy with a protein skimmer. The amount of junk they remove from the water is relatively small compared to what is left in the water. Think of it as an oxygenator more than anything else.

 

[Nanook]

I'm using this on my new 120g SPS tank:

Skimmate is tea colored because I just added new liverock yesterday and haven't tuned the skimmer in yet. The Lifereef is a nice design that just "works" and doesn't rely on a proprietary pump that will go bad and cost a lot of dough.

 

[mark54321]

I always liked Skimz skimmers. Had the SM-201E series on my heavy stocked 120 SPS tank, this skimmer kicks butt, and dead silent.All models after 2010 have new impeller , never had any problem with pump at all. Would recommend it to anyone.

 

[txaggie09]

I just put an oceans by design signature series skimmer on my 120. Its still breaking in but ive heard nothing but good things about this type of skimmer. If you have the room in your sump it may be worth looking in to. It also leaves you a lot of room to grow if you decide to go bigger, and its not picky about the water level in your sump.

 

[Allmost]

try to find an old Vertex IN 250 .... Great skimmers, Amazing price ... specially now since they are discontinued.

I have one of those, and a vertex Kone ... I personally like vertex skimmers alot, right after Euro-reef skimmers from back in the days.

 

[moondoggy4]

There is a INS 135 E (ehiem) for somewhere around 350 or less, one year old in the used section.

 

[milkman55]

My vote would be a AquaMaxx EcoMaxx EM200 if you are just running 120 gals and a sump. They are rated for 240 gals. I have the EM300 for my 180 gals. Replaced my SRO3000 and it's been a great improvement. Hard to get, but worth the wait.