E.intheC
Active Member
Well.. here it is.. I'm looking to downgrade my current 90 gallon reef.
Regarding Nano sized tanks, I've been thinking about this for a while, and have got my choices narrowed down to a few. I'd appreciate some feedback. I realize it's ultimately my choice, but as I see it right now, I'm about 50/50 either way, and need a 'nudge' in the right direction. :tongue:
First option is a (slightly) used Elos Mini.
Pros:
-Very high quality setup. I've seen them in person and I'm extremely happy with them.
-The tank's available right now.
-Silicone/seams look very nice and these tanks have been around for a while now.
-I don't have to build a stand or light bracket.
-My light (AI Sol Nano) will completely cover this tank.
Cons:
-It's smaller in comparison to the other tank.
-Slightly Used vs. new construction.
Second option is a custom rimless.
I have two builders currently giving me quotes, but for the following tank it should cost about the same as the Elos Mini. (I'm going to keep the builder's names out of this thread).
Dimensions will be aprx 22x22x16 high. 3/8 inch glass. Non-starphire as it's cost prohibitive.
Pros:
-I like the dimensions of this tank a bit better than the Elos and it's about 10-12 more gallons.
-Both manufacturers have quality reputations and have been building tanks for a few years. Not as long or as large a company as Elos, but it should be sufficient.
-Larger tank volume, easier to fit larger sump underneath. Higher fish load, etc.
Cons:
-I will have to make my own stand (I can build one structurally sound, but it takes a lot of time that I don't really have, and no matter how many times I've built stands, I still cant' get them as nice as an Elos. I don't have the tools or patience to get them top level).
-The tank will require a wait time of at least 1-2 months, both to be built and ship. Not a HUGE deal to wait, but the sooner I can get the 90 down and sold off, the better.
-Shipping is a risk in and of itself though. I'm not exactly thrilled at the idea of a large glass box shipped half way across the country.
-I'm not sure yet, but I MIGHT have to drill the tank. That would cost $$ to have the builder drill, but I'm also not thrilled with drilling a $400 tank.
-The light I have (Sol Nano) probably won't cover this tank end to end without raising it up substantially.
So there it is. Any additional thoughts will be appreciated. Thanks in advance.
Regarding Nano sized tanks, I've been thinking about this for a while, and have got my choices narrowed down to a few. I'd appreciate some feedback. I realize it's ultimately my choice, but as I see it right now, I'm about 50/50 either way, and need a 'nudge' in the right direction. :tongue:
First option is a (slightly) used Elos Mini.
Pros:
-Very high quality setup. I've seen them in person and I'm extremely happy with them.
-The tank's available right now.
-Silicone/seams look very nice and these tanks have been around for a while now.
-I don't have to build a stand or light bracket.
-My light (AI Sol Nano) will completely cover this tank.
Cons:
-It's smaller in comparison to the other tank.
-Slightly Used vs. new construction.
Second option is a custom rimless.
I have two builders currently giving me quotes, but for the following tank it should cost about the same as the Elos Mini. (I'm going to keep the builder's names out of this thread).
Dimensions will be aprx 22x22x16 high. 3/8 inch glass. Non-starphire as it's cost prohibitive.
Pros:
-I like the dimensions of this tank a bit better than the Elos and it's about 10-12 more gallons.
-Both manufacturers have quality reputations and have been building tanks for a few years. Not as long or as large a company as Elos, but it should be sufficient.
-Larger tank volume, easier to fit larger sump underneath. Higher fish load, etc.
Cons:
-I will have to make my own stand (I can build one structurally sound, but it takes a lot of time that I don't really have, and no matter how many times I've built stands, I still cant' get them as nice as an Elos. I don't have the tools or patience to get them top level).
-The tank will require a wait time of at least 1-2 months, both to be built and ship. Not a HUGE deal to wait, but the sooner I can get the 90 down and sold off, the better.
-Shipping is a risk in and of itself though. I'm not exactly thrilled at the idea of a large glass box shipped half way across the country.
-I'm not sure yet, but I MIGHT have to drill the tank. That would cost $$ to have the builder drill, but I'm also not thrilled with drilling a $400 tank.
-The light I have (Sol Nano) probably won't cover this tank end to end without raising it up substantially.
So there it is. Any additional thoughts will be appreciated. Thanks in advance.
