Skimmer Suggestions on a 500G

[phljess]

Looking for skimmer suggestions for a 500 gallon SPS dominant tank. Wanting to stay under $1000.00 if possible.

 

[solitude127]

Aquamaxx is always a good choice for a well performing budget skimmer.

 

[d-man]

Find a used BK if possible

 

[jason2459]

For a larger tank I highly recommend MTC venturi based skimmers. The MVX series can be built to any size which I would get as tall as you can get and for that size I would get the external dual venturi. Lifereef would be another good venturi based option.

MTC Skimmer club
http://www.reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?t=2519839

 

[scooter31707]

Aquamaxx or Simplicity. I running a Simplicity and love it.

 

[Pablos RSM 450]

AquaC EV 1000 with a jecod dct 12000. Skimmer $660 and pump $115. I wouldnt waste my time with any needlewheel skimmer. Another option is a 60" Lifereef but that will be more than 1K with shipping and pump. I have tried many needlewheel skimmers and they are good but if you want something that will last and skimm good go with the above mentioned. I have the Aquac EV 180 and it skims better than my 24" Lifereef.

 

[biecacka]

Used BK if possible or as Jason stated MTC or LifeReef. They all rock. I use a BK on my 240 and it's a beast, but I almost pulled the trigger on the MTC and following Jason's thread that skimmer is NO slouch at all.

Corey

 

[tom obrecht]

I'd go with d-man's suggestion. Another option would be a used ATB. I went with a used ATB a few years back and has been an excellent (best I have used in 25 years in the hobby) skimmer! If you plan on really loading up the system the 12.5 would be the option I would suggest but the 10.5 is what I use and works great and is rated for 530 gallons. They are on sale now thru ATB USA and at least worth a look. Austrian made with BK quality and what I prefer. I have have used BK in the past and these 2 brands are what I would recommend if funds allow!

 

[biecacka]

+1 on Tom's statement. I love my BK skimmer.

Corey

 

[fotoreceptor]

Hey Guys.
I just signed on this is my first attempt to get some advice.

I have started my tank 3month ago. 400gallon salt tank with about 100 gallon in the sump. I have some fish and live rock and plan to stock more fish and move to corals down the road.

I was advised to go with bigger skimmer and was suggested the Nyos 300 skimmer (if i could afford it) or Reef Octopus Regal 300int skimmers if the budget is tight. Im hoping for a skimmer that would be best bang for the buck.

Would you still recommend Bubble King as best choice?? Where do you recommend purchasing from??

 

[ca1ore]

For a big, SPS centric tank, I personally steer clear of extruded, needle wheel 'toy' skimmers. I've always gone with the big MTC models, though Lifereef is a good choice as well. Just my opinion for those inclined to take offense.

 

[jda]

If you have room, get two. Two average skimmers will pull more than one super-awesome one. They often cost less too. Few people do this, but it is a really good way to go. I used to use a ER 12-2 and a huge MRC beckett with a panworld 120 when I had a bigger tanks. Now I run that same ER 12-2 and a Octopus with a 8" body and Sicce pump (which I am amazed at how good it really is) - neither of these will outskim a BK on their own, but they crush a BK together.

 

[fotoreceptor]

thanks very much for the help.

ive got room for 2 skimmers if need be. might consider that.

Thanks jda/co1ore.
pete