red sea 250 max vs. build

chansman · Aug 1, 2012

Ok, I'm in the process of buying all of the component for my 75g mixed reef. Here's a list of what I have to date:

Used 75g w/over flow
Aqua-C EV120 skimmer
Icecap 660 ballast w/endcaps and reflectors
20g long for sump

With that I'm around $350 before I buy my pumps, power heads, and misc. plumbing. The price thus far isn't bad and the pieces are of nice quality but I stumbled across a Red Sea 250 max for $500. Would it be better to go ahead and finish to piece together my 75g or grab that Red Sea? I may even be able to get it a little cheaper.

This is my first SW tank...

cdrewferd · Aug 1, 2012

Really depends on what you want to do. The all-in-one's I think are a little easier for newbies. Glad I started with one. They just don't take as much work to setup and get running properly. I'd pick it up, and see if you like it. If not you could at least get your rock cycling while you finish getting the equipment for your 75.

Spaceman Spliff · Aug 1, 2012

The RSM250 is a nice tank, I run one but modded it with an overflow and sump. Its an odd size and fit on my wall perfectly which is why I bought it (paid $650 used but was 4 months old). Its also a good looking tank, I like the rounded edges and closed hood. Being I modded my tank from day 1, I don't know much about running it stock. I know the stock skimmer is finnicky. The six T5's are bright and can grow most corals. If you google Red Sea Max Owners Club you'll find a forum dedicated to RSM tanks and can find tons of info there. Limitations to the tank are there isn't much room under the hood to add leds or accessories (I squeezed in 2 strips).

MarineDepot · Aug 2, 2012

The Red Sea is a nice tank, especially for beginners as its pretty much good to go. Setting up your own tank, however, can be rewarding as you get to choose all of the components you want, and customize your build. Price wise, the build can be as affordable or as elaborate as you make it. Either way, as long as you get into the hobby, you'll be happy! Happy reefing.

Chris R.

chansman · Aug 3, 2012

Yeah, I think I'll be building the 75 as it will let me get my nerd on. My bulk heads came in yesterday so hopefully the tank will be leak tested this weekend. On a side note, I'm getting really good at hiding money from my wife...:bigsmile:

huuta · Aug 3, 2012

chansman said:
Yeah, I think I'll be building the 75 as it will let me get my nerd on. My bulk heads came in yesterday so hopefully the tank will be leak tested this weekend. On a side note, I'm getting really good at hiding money from my wife...:bigsmile:

lol,and telling her only 50% of what you really pay for that corals