Red Sea E170 or E260

[Killervector]

Hey guys and gals, I apologize in advance if someone has answered this before, I literally just joined!

I live in an apartment, and I really like the idea of the E170 for its size. I'll likely move within a year or two, and I want something that wont be too tough to move.

I like the E260 because it's obviously bigger.

My goals with this tank are some sofities, a variety of LPS, and maybe a few SPS near the top. I'd also like a few shrimp and gobies, maybe a fox face, and a few other nice looking, reef safe fish.

I plan to add the optional sump in cabinet.

Which tank would be best for somebody getting back in to the hobby? I had a 55 salt 20 years ago, and obviously technology has come a long way baby.

Is the stock lighting on these systems enough for a couple well placed SPS near the top?

Is the skimmer acceptable?

Which dosing systems should I look into?

I'm considering a Neptune Apex Controller, but am not sure the stock Red Sea equipment is compatible?

Lots of questions. Thanks in advance.

Chad

 

[PugsAndFish]

if you're moving in a year or two i would get the 170. i had the 170 and even moving that was a pain so i just sold it. consider a small aio tank if you're moving that fast. just from my experience i would....

AIO like an Innovative Marine > 170 > E170 >250 >E250.

Depends on when you're moving, if your apartment is up high and moving is a pain, and how far you're moving

 

[Killervector]

if you're moving in a year or two i would get the 170. i had the 170 and even moving that was a pain so i just sold it. consider a small aio tank if you're moving that fast. just from my experience i would....

AIO like an Innovative Marine > 170 > E170 >250 >E250.

Depends on when you're moving, if your apartment is up high and moving is a pain, and how far you're moving

I live on the first floor, so at least there's that! Sounds like you're recommending the E170. I'll look into the innovative marine tanks!

Thanks!

 

[PugsAndFish]

I live on the first floor, so at least there's that! Sounds like you're recommending the E170. I'll look into the innovative marine tanks!

Thanks!

I had the 170 with the sump. It's a nice tank and would recommend the 250 9/10 times...except if you're moving far because it's a massive pain i learned lol

 

[Killervector]

Thanks a bunch!

 

[Dub_G]

I have the Max E-260 with sump upgrade. I bought it used about 3 months before I was moving. I got a great deal on it and it was a buyer take all system still setup and running. I combined it and my then existing setup and didn't have any problems with that move or the move when I sold/ bought house.

Moving any tank is a PITA. I'd go with the 260. Otherwise after the move you are going to wish you had bigger tank.

 

[Killervector]

Thanks for the insight! I'm settling on my own build. May start a new thread just to see what peeps think!

 

[Killervector]

Looking at the 260 now. Would one reefwave 25 be adequate flow? Or is it a requirement to run one on each side of the aquarium?

 

[Killervector]

Oh yeah, thats 2,000 GPH flow. I know 5hats enough, but do I need 2 for best circulation?

 

[Dub_G]

I run two Ecotech MP-10 one on each side. Looking at the chart from RedSea about these they seem to point out 2. The dimensions for Redsea Reefer 250 is pretty close to E-260 and the chart shows 2. You could always start with one and get a second if it wasn't enough flow.

 

[Killervector]

Thabks Dub! I want to run a trigger sump in the bottom, eventually. I just don't know what to do. I can piece a 60 cube together with everything I want for the same price, with exception of ATO. Also, I don't think I'd be as happy with the red sea lights as I would ecotech radion xr15 G5s. May start a new thread with my dream build for peoples ideas. Thanks to all!