Which is the better deal?

[epicfish]

Hey everyone,

I've been a long-time lurker here at NR and have finally decided to get a nano reef going. I've talked to a few people and here's two deals that people have offered me. Which would be a better deal? I know that larger tanks are better because water params are easier to maintain. However I'm leaning towards a smaller tank...but if the 20 gallon long setup is a better deal, I'll take it.

I plan to keep maybe one or two small fish and mostly corals, softies, LPS...would I be able to keep a clam with the 70w MH setup?

20L
65 watt Coralife with 2 extra bulb (10,000 and actinic combo) and 1 extra actinic
15 gallon sump
Rio 1700 power head for sump
overflow box
heater
filter sock
20lbs old live sand
40 lbs live rock (that the previous owner dried out, so it's pretty much useless)
10 lbs live rock in the sump
and possibly a protein skimmer (probably not though)
for $250

OR

12 gallon aquapod
70w MH light retro
ICA chiller
upgrade pump(s)
heater
fuge light
for $200

Thanks for your help everyone!

 

[Illuminati]

Well do you like the look of rectangle or all in ones better? That is your biggest choice.

40 pounds of dry liverock is not worthless, it can easily be seeded and turn live again in a short period. On the other hand you won't need much liverock in the 12 and could probably use the $50 you will save to buy enough rock for it.

Another thing to consider is how old are the bulbs on each unit.
On the 20L if they have 6 months of use your gonna need to look into new bulbs soon, MH I believe last a bit longer.

If it was me I'd do the 12....

HTH

 

[epicfish]

*bump*

Any more opinions, anyone?

 

[Xandernfs]

20L hands down...

 

[Travis Savant]

12g, better deal, you will need to upgrade the lights with the 20L.