Tank Help and Equipment help, no budget.

[BillReef71]

I have five tanks in freshwater for about four years. Saltwater has been my real dream. I am slowly breaking down my freshwater tanks. I want just one tank, and I think I am ready to try saltwater. I am experienced with freshwater fish/plants. I am way past the multiple tank syndrome. I am older now, so my budget is generous within reason, I do like a deal. I have watched youtube videoes and recently the 5 minutes youtube series by BRS. in the series, and they suggest the Red Sea Max E series. This tank has a sump on the back. Wouldn't it be better to just go right to a true sump? My question is, knowing I am a beginner, this will be my longterm tank , do not want to keep upgrading and, I am new to saltwater, suggestions on tank and equipment?


Thank you for any suggestions.

 

[mike550]

I have five tanks in freshwater for about four years. Saltwater has been my real dream. I am slowly breaking down my freshwater tanks. I want just one tank, and I think I am ready to try saltwater. I am experienced with freshwater fish/plants. I am way past the multiple tank syndrome. I am older now, so my budget is generous within reason, I do like a deal. I have watched youtube videoes and recently the 5 minutes youtube series by BRS. in the series, and they suggest the Red Sea Max E series. This tank has a sump on the back. Wouldn't it be better to just go right to a true sump? My question is, knowing I am a beginner, this will be my longterm tank , do not want to keep upgrading and, I am new to saltwater, suggestions on tank and equipment?


Thank you for any suggestions.

Welcome to R2R! This is definitely the place where you can learn a lot, but it’s also mixed in with opinions. So you definitely need to decide what works best for you.

I started with a 120G reef ready tank and separate sump so I was able to pick out each piece of equipment myself. I am slowly building up my system, and have taken the time to add items as needed. First an ATO, next will be a doser, etc. For me, I think the Red Sea tanks are awesome but I also like the control I have over equipment, etc. As far as your freshwater tanks you could definitely keep one as a quarantine tank, and maybe convert one into a standalone sump. Good luck!

 

[glb]

I would recommend going ahead with a sump. You’ll have so much more flexibility in choosing equipment and I think they’re easier to do maintenance on than the all-in-ones (I’ve had both). I would also suggest an Apex controller system since budget allows. They’re not cheap, but I wouldn’t run a tank without one. I have a 40g with a 20g sump, mainly due to space limitations. I’ve read here that 75 or 90g tanks are great to start with. If you don’t plan on upgrading later on, you might want to go even bigger. Hopefully some people with bigger tanks will chime in. I’m like you. I like nice equipment but also saving money in an expensive hobby. If you’re handy or diy inclined, building everything (stand, sump, drilling tank, plumbing) is a lot of fun. I did that, and it left my budget open for better equipment. I’d also recommend getting great test kits and a good rodi system. Ask a lot of questions here. We all want to help!