Help Me Pick A Skimmer...

TruRacr314x · Oct 9, 2014

I'm in the process of setting up my upgrade. It is a 180g display, 80g frag and roughly 50g sump. Not 100% committed at this point, but planning to go barebottom. We'll call it a mixed reef and medium to high bio-load. I currently have a Reef Octopus Diablo XS200 and I'm fairly happy with the performance...but not so happy with the noise. I've been searching for a different one and seem to easily get lost with all the options.

So I'll turn it over to you....give me some direction!

butters417 · Oct 9, 2014

Reef dynamics

TruRacr314x · Oct 9, 2014

butters417 said:
Reef dynamics

Thanks...they look like nice skimmers. I would guess the INS300 would be good for me?

Kendrid · Oct 10, 2014

The Aquamaxx EM300 would work great. I have an EM200 on my 90g and it pulls out a thick green slime. My old skimmer never did anything like that.

TruRacr314x · Oct 10, 2014

Anyone else?

d2mini · Oct 11, 2014

I love my LifeReef and won't go back to needle wheel skimmers.
I would recommend that if you can fit it under your stand.
They tend to be on the taller side.

jschultzbass · Oct 12, 2014

I have the Reef Dynamics INS350E on my 300 and love it. The most consistent skimmer I've had. I would recommend the INS280E or 350E. They are more expensive since the use the Eheim pump but it is well worth it.

rayn · Oct 12, 2014

Bashsea. It can run internal or external and is a beast. It is a Beckett style though.

Njoy · Oct 12, 2014

CAD Lights PLS-300, nothing over 5 decibels
I really love mine (mostly for ease of cleaning)

cpayne015 · Oct 12, 2014

i just went with skimz on my 270 total volume and have absolutely been pleased

TruRacr314x · Oct 12, 2014

Thanks everyone...lots of nice skimmers!

Damon · Oct 12, 2014

Another bite for Dynamics! I had Ins135 and now ins80.. Most amazingly consistent and adjustable performers I have ever owned! I also run his pellet reactor and love that monster also!

If you can spend the cash, definately recommend dynamics!

adam87 · Oct 12, 2014

I would just replace the pump with a BB3000.

eagle · Dec 12, 2014

I personally would get an older Euroreef since they are the same skimmer as the reef dynamics and upgrade the pump. For instance I have a RS250 that I picked up for $100. 2X RS135's that I paid $51, and $85 for, and my first RS80 that I bought retail way too many years ago. You can find some good deals and pick a pump for them. Reef dynamics will sell ya a pump for it as well. I just smile when I see someone selling theirs for the "new" latest and greatest cause they are as good as any in my opinion. They were built to last and still skim as good as the new ones. Just more pump options for them nowdays.

menglish · Dec 12, 2014

I too am looking into upgrading my 90g mix reef to a 180g DT with a50-70 g sump. My choice of skimmer is the RO 9" regal.
It rated for up to 500g plus it has the DC pump with 5 speed. Should be very quiet.
Any thoughts on this choice?