Spiffyguy
New Member
- Joined
- May 2, 2020
- Messages
- 9
- Reaction score
- 3
- What state or country do you live in
- Missouri
I am returning to the hobby after about 10 years or so. Starting to do the research and make a list of all the things I will need to get. I previously had a 24 gallon Nanocube and I really like that form factor. Have looked at the IM and I just don't like that open top. I have been looking at the JBJ nanocube 28 gallon Wifi. Would like to get some thoughts on this compared to the Biocube 32. I like the thought of the dual return and wave maker feature of the Nano. My stocking plan would be a few small fish, inverts and some simple corals. Not looking to do anything too complex or require high end lighting. The intent is not to have to perform mods to get it to work. Out of the box would be nice to start with. The largest concern I have with the JBJ is the stand. It looks too slim to me. I would DIY one but I am in an apartment and don't have access to build. I know my LFS stocks JBJ tanks but I think they only have the 24s, which would be fine. But the 28 having the internal light timers and wave maker might be a better option. And 4 whole gallons more...! I know, massive tank.
One I last was in the hobby I had gotten live rock from the LFS and I did set up a DIY 55 AIO with some Tampa Bay Saltwater package. Very cool but just not in the cards this time around. I am guess I will start from scratch to get the full experience. What are people using for 'dead' rock these days. I see there are artifical rocks. Any particular brand that is good or what should I look for. Is it worth getting a rock or two from the store to supplement or is that too much of an exposure risk? I have patience so I don't mind waiting. Which brings up the question regarding this Dr Tim's stuff, or other brands. Is this something folks commonly use to get things kicked off? Essentailly set up tank, dump this in and off to the races? On the question of sand, I have not chosen any fish yet, other than a Lawnmower Blenny cuz they rule, but I may want to get a small goby. so what size sand should I be looking at?
With the tank and the stand out of the way, there is a hefty list of additional parts to get. Would appreciate some thoughts on brands/items for this list.
1. GFCI - I am in an apartment so I can't change outlets. Is there recommendations on a power strip or some other option here. What are other apartment dwellers using?
2. InTank Media Basket. Is see lots of reference to upgrading here. Is this really worth it for either the JBJ or Biocube?
3. Refractometer - What is a decent one to get?
4. RODO - Being in apartment I won't have huge space for storage of water. But I would rather make it myself than rely on getting to LFS for top off or salt water. I think I can remove the aerator on one of the faucets. I do have a washer hook up I can possible swap over to a RODI unit when I need to make water. SO..RODI Buddy? I have seen this referenced a few times here. What size and number of stages am I looking for?
5. Heater brand that would fit in either tank. I know the back area is a bit slim. Are titanium heaters still a thing over glass? I remember there always being issues with glass ones breaking.
I am sure I will have more questions but would appreciated a kick in the right direction. Since this was long, couple shots. one of the 24 I had and one of the 55.
One I last was in the hobby I had gotten live rock from the LFS and I did set up a DIY 55 AIO with some Tampa Bay Saltwater package. Very cool but just not in the cards this time around. I am guess I will start from scratch to get the full experience. What are people using for 'dead' rock these days. I see there are artifical rocks. Any particular brand that is good or what should I look for. Is it worth getting a rock or two from the store to supplement or is that too much of an exposure risk? I have patience so I don't mind waiting. Which brings up the question regarding this Dr Tim's stuff, or other brands. Is this something folks commonly use to get things kicked off? Essentailly set up tank, dump this in and off to the races? On the question of sand, I have not chosen any fish yet, other than a Lawnmower Blenny cuz they rule, but I may want to get a small goby. so what size sand should I be looking at?
With the tank and the stand out of the way, there is a hefty list of additional parts to get. Would appreciate some thoughts on brands/items for this list.
1. GFCI - I am in an apartment so I can't change outlets. Is there recommendations on a power strip or some other option here. What are other apartment dwellers using?
2. InTank Media Basket. Is see lots of reference to upgrading here. Is this really worth it for either the JBJ or Biocube?
3. Refractometer - What is a decent one to get?
4. RODO - Being in apartment I won't have huge space for storage of water. But I would rather make it myself than rely on getting to LFS for top off or salt water. I think I can remove the aerator on one of the faucets. I do have a washer hook up I can possible swap over to a RODI unit when I need to make water. SO..RODI Buddy? I have seen this referenced a few times here. What size and number of stages am I looking for?
5. Heater brand that would fit in either tank. I know the back area is a bit slim. Are titanium heaters still a thing over glass? I remember there always being issues with glass ones breaking.
I am sure I will have more questions but would appreciated a kick in the right direction. Since this was long, couple shots. one of the 24 I had and one of the 55.
