TOM aquarium VS. JBJ Picotope

[Maxi]

I had a TOM aquarium a while back, and I loved it. However, I had issues with the light fixture that the plastic brace eventually bent so much it just stopped standing up straight.

http://www.amazon.com/TOM-Aquarium-...&qid=1339889262&sr=8-13&keywords=tom+aquarium

Now I noticed that there is a JBJ picotope available, but I have never owned it.

http://www.amazon.com/JBJ-Gallon-Pi...e=UTF8&qid=1339889427&sr=8-1&keywords=pictope

Opinions?

 

[Jrmiller]

the picotopes are amazing. i have seen of ton of people with them that have had amazing success.

 

[Maxi]

It is a tough decision! I loved the TOM I had before...
Anyone have any input to put in on the picotopes?

 

[ange062]

I've been running a Picotope for ~8-mo, and no complaints! I did upgrade a bunch of stuff on it though, running a Panorama Pro light, AC70 with InTank basket, an overflow box, and a lid.

 

[Maxi]

Ange062, Can you post a picture of your whole set up from a standpoint view please?

 

[ange062]

Ange062, Can you post a picture of your whole set up from a standpoint view please?

This is what it looked like about 3-mo after I set it up. I've been meaning to take some new pics but just never get around to it!!

And I went and dug up my build thread:
http://www.reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?t=2076170

 

[Maxi]

Awesome! Thank you for looking for your build thread too. Where did you get your lights?

 

[Maxi]

And what pump, where did you get it from too!

 

[ange062]

Filter is AquaClear70 (AC70), mostly everything purchased locally.

 

[tommer725]

I have heard that Picotopes are very durable and don't scratch as easily. Never owned one so don't hold me to my word.

It is a tough decision! I loved the TOM I had before...
Anyone have any input to put in on the picotopes?

 

[TX..r33f]

i just ordered a picotipe and a butt load of other things. i have herd good thigns about the tanks

 

[jarrodsanborn]

Jbj has great glass. All other equipment will eventually be upgraded so avoid plastic and go glass!

 

[Jenna Ann]

I have a Picotope as a freshwater planted tank and I LOVE it. As a reef setup, I understand you can grow mushrooms and other very low light softies with the stock equipment. For anything else you'll want to make upgrades. Personally, I love the shape and size of them.