Good first setup? 120g with apex and radions

[busichio]

Hey reefers. Trying to get an idea if this used setup would be good for a first tank or not. I am weighing my options between going with a new aquarium with a 3-4k budget, or buying this one from an experienced reefer for 1800 with a lot of decent components. I am planning on attending Reefapoolza in 2 weeks so didn't want to rush into a decision before then most likely. Not sure if these conventions over deals on equipment or not .

Either way, I'm excited about entering the hobby after finally buying my first home. I'm located in Tampa so if anyone has any advice, outside of the 100+ hours ive spent on youtube, please let me know.

This is what I'm looking at. Most components are less than 1 year old, the tank and stand are less than 3 years old.
120 gal drilled marineland tank with custom stand (great fit and finish)
40 gal DIY breeder sump
euro reef skimmer with psk pump
jeboa DC return pump
Jebao powerheads (2)
2 radion gen 3's with wide angle lenses (less than 12 months old)
2 t5 lights
Neptune apex classic (less than 18 months old)
BRS GFO reactor
7 stage RO/DI setup
red sea test kit and all accessories

2 bullet hole clowns
foxface
Desjardin sailfin tang
4 anthias
chromis
flame hawkfish
stary blenny
yellow bluespot watchmen goby
a lot of soft corals
liverock and sand

 

[ihavecrabs]

You'll certainly get your monies worth on equipment and livestock for $1800. The tough part will be moving it if you decide to go that route.

The power heads and return pump aren't the best out there. I know, I use a few of the power heads and I've had them go out on occasion.

Do you know what comes with the Apex? Was it the gold package? Did he purchase any additional add ons? You'll likely want to replace the probes at a minimum.

Good luck with your decision!

 

[busichio]

You'll certainly get your monies worth on equipment and livestock for $1800. The tough part will be moving it if you decide to go that route.

The power heads and return pump aren't the best out there. I know, I use a few of the power heads and I've had them go out on occasion.

Do you know what comes with the Apex? Was it the gold package? Did he purchase any additional add ons? You'll likely want to replace the probes at a minimum.

Good luck with your decision!

The move is about 90 min drive time. That is where a bunch of my research has been. The owner is willing to have a bunch of extra saltwater and RO/DI that I can take with me. The Florida climate is decent right now for the move and the owner is willing to assist in the breakdown and share as much knowledge as he can, which is more than I can say for other craigslist setups around here. Looked into professional movers but that cost is just too high and I would just go with a new setup.

The apex just has the standard temp and PH for the classic.

 

[PatW]

The equipment looks good. I have not had jeboa pumps or powerheads. Their effective life can be short. But you could replace them with premium equipment as needed and still come out way ahead.

A 120 gallon aquarium is a good size. It has a 4’ length and 24” height and depth.

 

[busichio]

The equipment looks good. I have not had jeboa pumps or powerheads. Their effective life can be short. But you could replace them with premium equipment as needed and still come out way ahead.

A 120 gallon aquarium is a good size. It has a 4’ length and 24” height and depth.

So I am pulling the trigger on this system. Now comes the joy of planning for the 70 miles move. I'm going to rent a uhaul and we are going to attempt to keep the tank on the stand to avoid re-plumbing everything. If it is still too heavy for 4 guys and 2 dolly's then the plumbing will be redone. I will have all plumbing parts ready to go if we have to go that route.

I have read mixed reviews on reusing water and/or sand. It comes with a 6 stage RO/DI water maker setup so I was planning on reusing the water with a 20-30% water change. The sand is where I'm conflicted. This tank has only been in its current location for a year and cost doesn't matter, just want to be the least disruptive as I can. Any advice?

Here are some photos.