New SPS Tank

[PNW_reefer]

I am looking to start an SPS dominant tank later this year with a few LPS mixed in, and am having a hard time deciding what “system” to use. I currently have a calcium reactor in storage, and apex controller from a previous tank. Curious as to thoughts on Zeovit, Triton, or basic Calc reactor and fuge setup with Red Sea color program perhaps? Goal here is ease of maintenance, and bright pops of color in the tank. I know zeovit can be spendy, triton has some issues with product availability, but looking for a general direction when it comes to keeping those SPS happy. Thanks everyone!

 

[Surfzone]

I find that the easiest and most simple method is simple 2 part dosing. This also depends on how large of a tank. You stated that you have a Ca reactor. I would just use that for calcium, alk, and Mag. Once you get or diled in then all you really have to do is replace CO2 every so often. Also what are your plans for filtration and lighting. All of this plays a big role in any setup

 

[EW_Fish]

Honestly some people start to think to much when it comes to sps. Just break out that calcium reactor and put it to use.

 

[PNW_reefer]

I’m thinking at least 100 gallons, and using my Radion XR30w G4 pros for lighting, and either mp40’s or gyres for flow. I loved my calc reactor on previous tank but am curious as to other ideas.

 

[jda]

Any of those "system" only really work once you have a super stable established tank already. I would just go a modified Berlin with 3" of sand, live rock, heavy skimming, good flow, water changes and a Calcium Reactor. Most of the best tanks mostly use this or something really close. You do not need any of those systems to have a great tank and most of the great tanks do not use them.

Plan on adding some T5s to your Radions if you want to get into this big-time... more people do than don't.

 

[PNW_reefer]

Ive thought about T5’s before, what is the best way to implement them with Radions? I think the biggest draw to one of those “systems” is the coral nutrition, as with my busy schedule the less I have to add supplements to feed the better.

 

[Surfzone]

As of right now I think the Aquatic Life hybrid would be your best bet or you can get a T5 retro fit kit and make something yourself. I have the Aquatic Life hybrid on my 60 cube with my XR 15 gen 4

 

[PNW_reefer]

Would the diffusers give the same effect? Or would I see a major difference in actually having some T5’s?

 

[jda]

The diffusers just soften the direction of the diodes and spread them out further. They do not really help with shadows since the point source does not change, nor do they make the spectrum better. Diffusers can help in one way and T5s in another. Giesemann has a hybrid fixture that you can put your own LED in... so does AquaticLife.

 

[PNW_reefer]

Ill check those out. What spectrum T5’s do y’all recommend? I ran the coral lab AB+ before on radions and will likely run the same schedule on the next build.

 

[Surfzone]

I'm using ATI coral+ and blue+

 

[PNW_reefer]

2 of each? I believe the AquaticLife Hybrid fixture has room for 4 T5’s correct?

 

[Surfzone]

Correct

 

[PNW_reefer]

What are you feeding for supplements?

 

[Surfzone]

I only dos calcium, mag, and alk. Sometimes ill add in some acropower