New Reefer From Colorado

Dbirdie614 · Jun 13, 2023

Hello!

After years of being on the edge, I finally have the stability to start a reef tank! I am 30 and live in Boulder, CO. Over the last few months of research, I have just become more confused about what I should get. I wish my shop up here was a little more helpful.

My goal is a 40ish gallon softie tank with a couple clowns and a clean up crew. I am planning on installing a RODI. I would like to keep a very clean tank and am willing to put in the work. I am between the following at the moment:

Red Sea Reefer G2
IM NUVO 40
Tideline AIO
And possibly a more custom option with something like a Trigger systems sump (if you guys think it would be worth it)

If i go the more custom route it would be very helpful to see others with systems and the gear they chose. It is so overwhelming looking at all the options and whenever i talk to a retailer, they recommend the most expensive parts. I am going to keep up on maintenance and i want a super clean simple tank.

Thank you all and I cant wait to show you my progress.

1112-425XL · Jun 13, 2023

I'm considering upgrading my 20g tank and I've been very interested in the Waterbox Marine X 60.2. It's about the size you're looking for and has great reviews. 4-6 week backorder

beesnreefs · Jun 13, 2023

Dbirdie614 said:
Hello!

After years of being on the edge, I finally have the stability to start a reef tank! I am 30 and live in Boulder, CO. Over the last few months of research, I have just become more confused about what I should get. I wish my shop up here was a little more helpful.

My goal is a 40ish gallon softie tank with a couple clowns and a clean up crew. I am planning on installing a RODI. I would like to keep a very clean tank and am willing to put in the work. I am between the following at the moment:

Red Sea Reefer G2
IM NUVO 40
Tideline AIO
And possibly a more custom option with something like a Trigger systems sump (if you guys think it would be worth it)

If i go the more custom route it would be very helpful to see others with systems and the gear they chose. It is so overwhelming looking at all the options and whenever i talk to a retailer, they recommend the most expensive parts. I am going to keep up on maintenance and i want a super clean simple tank.

Thank you all and I cant wait to show you my progress.

Welcome to the hobby! It's a labor of love, for sure

I'm up in Firestone, so not far from you. You mentioned your LFS not being super helpful...if you're willing to make the drive, I can't say enough good things about the folks at Biggs Lagoon up here in Firestone. Knowledgable, patient, kind, and committed to helping people succeed.

Dbirdie614 · Jun 13, 2023

1112-425XL said:
I'm considering upgrading my 20g tank and I've been very interested in the Waterbox Marine X 60.2. It's about the size you're looking for and has great reviews. 4-6 week backorder

dang this one looks great. Going to do some more research for sure.

Dbirdie614 · Jun 13, 2023

beesnreefs said:
Welcome to the hobby! It's a labor of love, for sure

I'm up in Firestone, so not far from you. You mentioned your LFS not being super helpful...if you're willing to make the drive, I can't say enough good things about the folks at Biggs Lagoon up here in Firestone. Knowledgable, patient, kind, and committed to helping people succeed.

AWESOME. I am actually in Longmont so that is great news. I will give them a call and stop by. I appreciate it.

SPS2020 · Jun 13, 2023

Welcome to Reef2Reef!

My preference would be the IM40 and Trigger Systems...but I am biased (see build thread).

vetteguy53081 · Jun 13, 2023

paragrouper · Jun 13, 2023

I have a 32 gallon AIO. I would prefer a sump, as you are very constrained when you add skimmers, etc. by the size of the AIO chambers.

That being said, the Tideline AIO does look rather nice.

paragrouper · Jun 13, 2023

paragrouper said:
I have a 32 gallon AIO. I would prefer a sump, as you a very constrained when you add skimmers, etc. by the size of the AIO chambers.

That being said, the Tideline AIO does look rather nice.

Oh, and