New to R2R starting a reef build

[EHaddad]

Hello for two years I have been trying to decide whether or not I want to do a reef tank. The reason I have been thinking about it for so long is I know it is not an easy task to create one and maintain one, and I wanted to make sure I was up for the challenge.

I have decided where in the house I want to put the tank so the next step I guess is to decided which tank to get. I have two questions about this:

1: Is it better to buy a complete setup with all the bells an whistles or is it better to buy it piece by piece.

2: Which brands do y’all recommend?

 

[Retro Reefer]

Welcome to the forum! I like to put together my own system piece by piece Vs a package deal.. equipment choices and brands is mostly personal preference, do lots of planning and research on each piece of equipment.

 

[reacclimating 2 the hobby]

Welcome to R2R... for a first tank, an AIO might be the best way to go... then as you learn you can put your next one together piece by piece.

 

[Waters]

Welcome !! an AIO would definitely be easier, but unfortunately, assuming you like the hobby, you will probably start upgrading all the pieces and wish you started differently.

 

[IslandLifeReef]

Welcome to R2R! I agree that an AOI is an easier start and that you could quickly outgrow it. You could consider going with a package such as a Reefer Deluxe. It will give you some of what you need and the opportunity to choose some of your equipment.

 

[mta_morrow]

Hello and welcome to R2R!

Take your time and do some research here on the differences, successes, and failures of the different kinds of systems and equipment.

I personally read here and watched a lot of YouTube videos for months before deciding on my purchases.

 

[Lovemyreef2015]

Welcome to R2R.

 

[Antics]

Welcome to R2R!!

 

[Teri NewbieReefer]

Hi and Welcome to R2R! Take your time and read a few reef build threads to see what works, and what will work For YOU. I started by converting a FOWLR cube... and am now DIYing a sump, and planning and saving up for my ‘next tank’. (No, I wasn’t planning on a next tank, but it is pretty addicting. Lol.) Have fun, have patience, and “jump on in, the water’s fine!”

 

[SPR1968]

Welcome to R2R!

I prefer the Red Sea all in one systems personally as they are stunning especially the flag ship S Series, but there are many choices out there for you.

 

[Ruben's Reef]

!!! Welcome to R2R !!! From my own experience, if budget is not a problem, get the biggest you can fit on the space designated for the tank. An AIO will be easy but if you are a DIY person, you can build your own system from scratch. A lot to read and learn here.

 

[reef lover]

Welcome to r2r!!

 

[Billldg]

Welcome to R2R!!! Agree with others, take your time and do your homework, plenty of info here and helpful reefers to guide u if needed.

 

[mahindra.dev]

Hello, Hola, Shalom and Namaste.

Welcome to R2R.

What you ask depends on what your budget it. Bells and Whistles are not needed to enjoy a reef tank. But they always help. For a simple softie system, you can get by with basic maintenance and not break the bank. But from an equipment stand point, I recommend you buy once. Say you are getting a light, get such that you can always daisy chain. I got a kessil 360 and then added one more. Thats one advice.

 

[HairyGary]

Welcome to Reef2Reef!!

 

[mahindra.dev]

I agree with other reefers, AIO is my goto system if you dont have a lot of time to maintain a large system. I recommend checking Waterbox. New but just awesome. I got their 50.3 last week.

 

[DFR]

Nice, and welcome to the hobby in advance!!! If you are anything like me, no matter what you settle on, it will be the wrong choice. There is always something new and tempting.
If you are looking for a nice smaller set-up for a living area that will get your feet wet and have people in awe the AIO is a no brainer. But for a larger system that is your own pride and joy, in YOUR own space, I would do something a little more elaborate.
If money is not in the question, RedSea definitely makes the best all around (quality, engineering, aesthetics). If you are into controlling every minor detail, you can always go with a custom build. There are tons of choices out there, it really just comes down to personal preference.

 

[Captain Quint]

Greetings EHaddad! You have gotten some great info so far and I'm sure you noticed how willing to assist everyone here is.

I really like how you have been thinking this through for some time instead of just jumping right in. It is a great sign that you will do well. Bumps in the road will happen but we are here for you.

Any certain fishes and such in mind and what you are looking for in the hobby?

 

[btmedic04]

Welcome! I like my Innovative Marine Nuvo Fusion 20 AIO and give my recommendation to IM as well.

 

[EHaddad]

I know I wanna do a reef tank ,but I have not picked out any fish yet. I am waiting till I get my tank established and functioning before I start thinking about that.