Cad artisan tanks. Opinions?

[Michael43]

Any reason I shouldn't get one? I like the 125 and 165 models. I'd upgrade the pump and skimmer tho from what it comes with. I don't really want to wait for a custom build. Already have a reefer 450. Was thinking of getting a 525 but don't like the small sump. Harder to run a frag tank to it. Just looking to add another tank not upgrading the 450 necessarily because it will stay up and running

 

[CJBuckeyes]

In descending order. Very nice tank. Decent stand, but not perfect. Strange sump layout. Horrible stock plumbing. Even horribler customer service.

If you don't mind having to do custom plumbing and you're willing to take the risk that you won't have any problems with the tank.. then it's a good option. If you have an issue though, which I did, then be ready for the most frustrating customer experience ever. Not exaggerating. Ever.

 

[CJBuckeyes]

Some pics of mine from when I set it up a year ago. The first is of the custom plumbing, the second shows that the doors are slightly off. I've adjusted them as much as I could.

 

[erinmegan85]

Here's my humble opinion, spend the extra money and get the 525, and get a different sump for it, or go with a custom made tank. I have a 68 gallon Versa. The tank is beautiful, and I like the stand. However, their customer service is the worst I've ever had in my life. If you have an issue expect to spend months getting everything fully resolved. They are horrible at responding to anything (phone, e-mail, etc.). I know I for sure will never buy anything from them ever again.

 

[Bpc9876]

this is informative as I was looking at those two tanks as well. Thanks OP!

 

[CJBuckeyes]

It's a shame. The tank itself really is beautiful.

 

[Salty1962]

Their cs is really bad and the plumbing they send with the tanks is bad but the tanks and stands are well made. I have a 70G Artisan II and I love it. I also like their PS, a little testy but when you get it dialed in you're good to go. I've plumbed a few tanks before so I had no issues about doing it the way I wanted it but if your looking for a true turnkey system, go with the Red Sea. Here's my system after I got everything working.

 

[fishkeeper2]

It depends. I have 1 of each (CAD 125 / Red Sea 250)

If you are looking to save money at the cost of initial frustration during tank setup, CAD Lights is your option.

If you want to spend quite a bit more but lay back and relax with no issues, Red Sea.

Overall, if you get lucky, the CAD tanks have a better sump and a glass cover for a huge reduction to evaporation.

 

[GraphicReefer]

When I was originally looking at purchasing a new tank, CAD was one of the options I had considered. I had emailed customer service for just the tank as I knew I needed to build my own stand. The response I got was a little "shiesty" in my opinion, I do understand it to a point, but still was a little perturbed. Plus, after I was originally quoted 700 for the tank, I had follow up several emails citing new "sales" and lower prices for just the tank. I just got " Used-Car Salesmen Vibe" from them and decided to shop elsewhere. But that was just my personal experience. I have no personal experience with the tanks, but from what I've heard is if something goes wrong with the tank it is a nightmare to deal with them.