Skimmer vs. Controller.. what to get?

[unbreakable]

I want to add a 55g sump to my 75g DT, and I don't think the Octo nw150 will keep up.

I was thinking of either getting the MSX250 skimmer, i know it's large but ill upgrade to a larger tank after college, or instead getting an RKE?

Tank will definitely benefit from the skimmer, but I'm also tired of pulling plugs-- i was thinking i could use an American DJ for a while before getting the RKE

what do you think??

 

[Ehaze]

RKE!!!! you have no idea how nice a controller is, + if you do water changes, there is nothing to worry about! save up for the skimmer in a monthc.

 

[SALT WATER CRAZ]

I would get the skimmer. And use the dj stuff till you get a controller.

 

[LEGENDARY_ENG]

get the skimmer

 

[ccorpse27]

Get a skimmer first then get a cheaper controller like an AC Jr. I have one and it's great.

 

[TScripa]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=14344952#post14344952 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by ccorpse27
Get a skimmer first then get a cheaper controller like an AC Jr. I have one and it's great.

x 2

 

[seawandrr]

Am I reading this correctly that you already have a NW150?

I ran that for 3 years on a very successful 75g DT reef with a 40+ gallon sump, with the typical mods (mesh, larger relocated air intake, cleaning up the volute and elbows)

In fact it's still in service on the same tank as a FOWLR with some messy fish in it.

So, if you already have that, I'd be a bit more inclined to say go for a controller, and upgrade the skimmer later.

If it's a stock NW150, and you're not comfortable with the mods (and the maintenance required to keep the mesh in top form)

Then yeah, think about a Ext200 or 250 to keep the water clean.

 

[tpenn187]

if he is running the new funnel neck skimmer, he will want to upgrade. i hate the funnel neck, but if it is the older version i would agree with what seawandrr said, good skimmer. but all in all i would get the skimmer over the controller.

 

[unbreakable]

well.. i ended up getting the ATI bubble master 250 from the for sale forum; i HOPE that he doesn't say that someone else sent the money before, but he already agreed to sell it to me, so I sent the payment.

I'm hoping to upgrade the tank in the future so all I would have to get is a larger tank and upgrade lighting. The RKE I could always get down the road, the basic is only 299

good or bad on the ATI?