Tank upgrade

[Joe Glass Cages]

So I was actually pricing up glass cages. Looks like there estimate is $6140 for a glass tank with perimeter bracing 60x30x24 with a stand. The IM made to order EXT 170 with the stand is $3425 and is 59x30x21.

Is the extra for the glass cages worth it? Or would putting the $3k in savings doing the IM into new gear be better?

Most awesome. Thanks for the consideration @thomas_neil

I would be curious about the options and materials for comparison. so interesting. I built a simple perimeter braced with a solid wood stand and overflow and got $3,600. I guess it's all in the desired options.

Thanks so much for the consideration!! very appreciated.

 

[X-37B]

I have an IM 15. Its a nano and is now a planted freshwater system. The build quality is the best I have seen for a nano.
Im considering the ext 112 but the 150 ext would be ideal for me. I would go with the full system which looks real good and be done. They are a well thought out system, imo.

Or a standard 180, 72x24x24, or 150 60x24x24. Do the 180 if it will fit. You will have to stand the tank on end to go around a corner but its doable.

Also keep in mind the stand. The Im stand can be assembled in your basement.

 

[thomas_neil]

Most awesome. Thanks for the consideration @thomas_neil

I would be curious about the options and materials for comparison. so interesting. I built a simple perimeter braced with a solid wood stand and overflow and got $3,600. I guess it's all in the desired options.

Thanks so much for the consideration!! very appreciated.

I will definitely be reaching out to glass cages when I’m ready for the upgrade!!! So I can see what the difference in price between the IM and glass cages!

 

[thomas_neil]

So trying to reprice everything I want so I can make that my budget. For 220 gallon tank would you recommend a GEO 36 or a GEO 46" sump. I've been playing with some dimensions on tanks and I think I might go with @Joe Glass Cages. Im thinking if I can turn the tank on its side for the move I could do like a 5'x3'x24". and center it in the wall. These dimensions would give me 3 very good viewing panels.

I guess my question is do I need a custom sump for this size through glass cages or would a Geo 46" sump be big enough. I really like the built in roller mats in the geo sumps and the built in reactors to keep everything clean.

For glass cages is the low iron glass really worth the extra price. I for sure want the seam guards and im not a huge fan of the plastic perimeter bracing. I like the clean look of just glass euro braces on the top of the tank.

I'm getting about $5000 for a tank and stand. I think my new plan is get the tank I really want and everything to run it FOWLR for a while and hold off on coral for a year or 2 and then upgrade to a reef.