New to the hobby!

[tbkopp0908]

Seeking suggestions as I am a beginner. Current questions.

What size tank would you recommend during start up?

What’s proper on Salinity,PH,Nitrates nitrites,calcium etc?

What brand lighting do you recommend as I plan on growing corals?

Wave makers? Brand? Cost effective?

Live rock VS Texas holy?


HOB protein skimmer VS Sump system?


And please feel free to add any other suggestions you may have. I am starting to shop and build this weekend.

 

[75galOCD]

Great news tbkopp0908 reefs are quite the "hobby" I quote hobby because to me it's more than that. I don't know a word to describe the reward I get anyway. So buckle up for the addiction ahead!
Number 1 get a RO/DI filter before anything.
As far as size of tank, get what fits in the space you have comfortably. I've seen some nice small reefs I started with a 29 but I like the 75 better.
Some say for growing metal halide is the only way to go. I saw this 260 with amazing coral growth using T5 & LED. You'll find yourself researching lighting for days & you'll find what you want based on what fits you. The nice thing about the lights is you have a little time before you will need to add light, my build and cycle took over 2 months.
Wave makers same as the lighting & skimmers. Skimmer selection will be determined on size of the tank or size of sump. There are good skimmers for all size tanks.
I'm a live rock reefer all the way but that is just like everything else it will come to you. Every choice out there has something good.
You know, it all comes with a price and a lot of your build will reflect how much you want to spend on each component.
Everything that can help you with your choices is here, the reefers on R2R are very knowledgeable.
You will enjoy this experience so don't rush it make every aspect perfect from the electrical to plumbing, keeping in mind access for maintenance and adding support equipment.

 

[Jason mack]

Welcome too R2R .. hope this link helps a little !!!
https://www.reef2reef.com/threads/the-supreme-guide-to-setting-up-a-saltwater-reef-aquarium.138750/
Happy Reefing !!!