Picking up a new tank

[galdadi]

Hi guys, I'm looking in to get into reef tank.

I wantto start something small.

What do you think about the red Sea max 130 system?

Is it good for soft corals and lps?

Does it need upgrades?

 

[Jekyl]

Welcome!

 

[JoshH]

Welcome to R2R!

I myself would suggest something other than the Max 130. Not because it's a bad system (I own one right now though it's currently disassembled). It grew coral great but I made some modifications to it which increased it's total volume. But the reason I'd suggest skipping it is because it's discontinued. Any spare or replacement parts are next to impossible to find if you need them.

The newer MAX 170s would be a good system or almost any of the Innovative Marine line (I'd stick with the 30s and up for a beginner if you have the room). Or go with a classic like the 40B, if going this route I'd atleast predrill and install an overflow/return so down the road you can add a sump easily. This seems to be a common trap with most new reefers who set these systems up and then ask how or if they can add an overflow and sump to there already running system. It's completely possible but if you atleast add the overflow and return in the beginning it's SOOOOOO MUCH easier to add a sump down the road.

You can even use the overflow if large enough as an external Refugium with a small pump to pump water back into the aquarium in the mean time before you add a sump down the road.

What kind of budget are you working with for the total system?

 

[Captain Quint]

Welcome to R2R... ^^^solid advice.

 

[galdadi]

Thank you guys

 

[Matt Carden]

Welcome to R2R!
I started my first FOWLR tank without an overflow/sump setup and I regretted it every day. Definitely set up a sump.

 

[Jeight]

Welcome to R2R!!!

 

[LiveWire]

Welcome to the greatest hobby in the history of forever!!

 

[virtual reality]

You picked the best website to get you going on the right track. Good Job and Welcome to R2R.

 

[Sod Buster]

Welcome. Whatever your budget, it's easy to get overwhelmed with things. Plan it out and ask questions.

 

[lapin]

Howdy
That is a good starter tank for someone on a limited budget. There are better options

 

[xaflatoonx]

Welcome to R2R -

may i suggest the IM AIO tanks... it will be easier to manage and something to learn from.
You want to keep cost down as you learn the hobby so when its time to go big and all - you can really put money down worth your experience and research

best way to not throw money away.
There is just so much to learn - you cant read it - you have to experience it.

 

[Mastiffsrule]

 

[Gonebad395]

Welcome to R2R glad to have you the tank you asked about is a great tank.