Shawn's Custom 48x24x14 Shallow Reef Build

[CrunchyBananas]

Interesting, curious to see how this tank goes as a custom AIO and skipping on the sump.

 

[Kodski]

I did a peninsula in my office and I love it. Definitely worth the trade off of extra space to gain the additional views.

 

[swilliams2207]

Interesting, curious to see how this tank goes as a custom AIO and skipping on the sump.

I’m equally as curious. I was so tempted to go sump route but trying to keep things on the simpler side.

 

[CrunchyBananas]

I’m equally as curious. I was so tempted to go sump route but trying to keep things on the simpler side.

I think your idea will result in a very nice, clean looking tabletop type set up and is doable for sure! But I do think there may be some hurdles, primarily nutrients, but if you monitor them and are disciplined in feeding I think it'll be a sweet tank! You even have the potential to have rocks coming out of the water to sort of hide the AIO filter compartment which would be cool, especially in that peninsula format.

 

[*kali*]

Quality work.

 

[kiet_kat]

Love the stand. Following

 

[Daryl.Norton]

Looks great so far, i am busy with something similar but on a smaller scale. Cant wait to see progress on this one.

 

[swilliams2207]

Just assembled the AIO kit from @Tenecor Aquariums. I opted for self assembly so I could ensure my return pump fit.

it was not cheap… but that’s what you get for custom.

Also ordered 60 lbs of base/ premium live rock from Tampa Bay Saltwater. Just waiting on my tank at this point… which I’m hoping will ship in the next week or so. I live very close to the ocean and seriously considering using NSW. My only reservation is not knowing what else I’m picking up. I’m sure it’s loaded with beneficial stuff but I’d have to collect from the shore.

 

[Tenecor Aquariums]

Just assembled the AIO kit from @Tenecor Aquariums. I opted for self assembly so I could ensure my return pump fit.

it was not cheap… but that’s what you get for custom.

Also ordered 60 lbs of base/ premium live rock from Tampa Bay Saltwater. Just waiting on my tank at this point… which I’m hoping will ship in the next week or so. I live very close to the ocean and seriously considering using NSW. My only reservation is not knowing what else I’m picking up. I’m sure it’s loaded with beneficial stuff but I’d have to collect from the shore.

Nice work! Hoping to see the final results. All the best.

 

[swilliams2207]

GLASS IS HERE!

 

[swilliams2207]

Just siliconed the AIO compartment. Had to do some sanding and cut some notches to get it to fit just right. The bottom of the tank has raised bars around the parameter that I didn’t account for. Luckily a orbital sander and coping saw made simple clean cuts.

mad respect for those who silicone tanks together and make them look so good. It’s tedious work. I taped off the outer edges for really clean lines. The rest won’t be seen anyway. Just need to paint the tank sides black to hide the AIO component and this thing is ready for water. I have about 70 lbs of TB live rock coming early October. Going to let this set for a week before testing.

 

[TheWB]

Just siliconed the AIO compartment. Had to do some sanding and cut some notches to get it to fit just right. The bottom of the tank has raised bars around the parameter that I didn’t account for. Luckily a orbital sander and coping saw made simple clean cuts.

mad respect for those who silicone tanks together and make them look so good. It’s tedious work. I taped off the outer edges for really clean lines. The rest won’t be seen anyway. Just need to paint the tank sides black to hide the AIO component and this thing is ready for water. I have about 70 lbs of TB live rock coming early October. Going to let this set for a week before testing.

Love it, that looks awesome. Can't wait to see how it all comes together.

 

[kiet_kat]

You can also use black vinyl for the back chamber section as well

 

[swilliams2207]

You can also use black vinyl for the back chamber section as well

Ended up painting it all

 

[gratefulbean]

Looks great can't wait see what's next

 

[herozero]

This is coming together so so nicely! Great work.

 

[herozero]

GLASS IS HERE!

1/2“ low iron?

 

[swilliams2207]

1/2“ low iron?

Correct - all four sides. Just filled it up today and picking up TBS rock tonight!

 

[swilliams2207]

Rock is in. This is 35 lbs of TBS base rock. I have another 35 lbs of their premium rock coming in 10 days. Once the tank is cycled I’ll add batch two. The difference between live and fake rock is amazing.

Lots more to organize below. My plan is to hide all components and ATO in the two baskets below for a clean look. Also waiting on custom brackets to mount my AI primes on the bar. Will likely lower as well.

 

[SpyC]

That stand looks great. I wish I had those kind of skills.
I use a Reef Octopus VarioS2 on my IM Lagoon 50 and it’s been great. If you are going to get a controller it integrates easily with both the Apex and Hydros ecosystems.
Looking forward to seeing your build come together.

How is your vario on noise?