Advice: Return Pump and Powerheads

mtdaly85 · Jul 1, 2018

I am purchasing a RSR 425XL. I've already picked out the lights (2x Hydra 52HD for now, likely upgrading to a third if needed at a later date), the tank (obviously), and the Skimmer (Deltec 600ix).

I'm struggling with the pump and powerheads. I've narrowed it down to:

Return pumps:

RO Varios-6
Echotech M1

Powerheads:

2x RO Pulse 4
2x Tunze Stream 6105
2x Echotech MP40wQD

The reviews on BRS are all over the place with the M1 and more consistent with the Varios-6. The M1 has higher max flow (therefore putting less stress on the pump than running the Varios 6 at the same flow rate) and, in my opinion, a "cleaner" looking controller. The Varios-6 has a slight price advantage and more consistent positive reviews as noted above.

With respect to the powerheads, I like the ability to angle the flow with the Pulse 4 and the 6105. I like that the MP40wQD has no wires inside the system, but I'm a bit turned off by the "headphones" look. Pulse 4 is new and really sleek looking, but again: wires inside the tank!

Any feedback or help would be greatly appreciated, thank you.

mfinn · Jul 1, 2018

IMO it's tough call between your choice of return pumps.
I loved how quiet my M1 was. I had it for a little over a year before selling it and moving to a different pump. The guy I sold it to a year and half ago still uses it on his tank.
I've read nothing but good on the Varios pumps.
I guess you could factor in cost as a deciding point.

I also use Vortechs. Love em.
But it's really tough to beat the dependability of the Tunze 6105's.
I got a year old pair and used them for 8 years before trading them.