Buying a new protein skimmer advice

[Magnumpi5]

Hello everyone,
I have a 50 gallon mixed reef with a 20 gallon sump, I want to get a new skimmer because my shops psk 100 is dying. I am thinking about getting either the bubble magus curve 5 or the reef octopus space saver 150. I am looking for any input on these two or any other skimmer suggestions, I.d like to keep price under $300.00. Any input would be greatly appreciated. Thanks

 

[azbigjohn]

I have heard great things about both, although I have only owned Reef Octopus skimmers... I have loved every Reef Octopus skimmer I have used. They can be a little pricey, but they are consistent and run well.

Another option might be the Skimz brand. I know BRS did a video about them when they brought them in. I was under the impression they were a little more budget friendly, but still decent quality skimmers.

 

[JOE_2217]

I have a 55 gallon with 11 gallon sump and I have been using the Reef Octopus 110 SSS. Its a great skimmer IMO. Hardly any break in time, easy to dial in and very quite. Pulls all sorts of gunk outta my tank. If you tank is not too heavily stocked you could probably get by with the 110. Good luck!

 

[NanaReefer]

I'm currently running the IceCap K2-120 on my 40B/20L sump. Rated for tanks up to 75g-120g. Been running for a year now. I'm very impressed! Easily dialed in, small footprint, a breeze to disassemble for complete cleaning. Best of all is the Sicce pump and the price tag, $279.00!

 

[siggy]

Skimz 123 mini monster, found on sale for 159. Normal 200, adjustable DC pump, its Awesome, i have to empty once a week . Footprint is 6.5"x7.5" i think the hight is 21" , check it out, good luck

 

[Magnumpi5]

Thanks for your input. I think I'm to the point where I want to spend money for the reliability and will go with a reef octopus, they seem to be a favorite among reefers

 

[chipmunkofdoom2]

We have a few Reef Octopus models on our tanks at the National Aquarium in Baltimore. One of our smaller displays uses a space-saver, might even be the 150. Not sure though. It's pretty easy to clean and adjust. There's a light bioload in the tank, but it still manages to pull out some nasty stuff.

On my home tank I have an SCA-301. Works pretty well despite being way oversized (rated for 65 gallons, on a 20 gallon tank). Couldn't beat the price.