Two tanks... which one? (poll)

Which tank would you choose?

  • 66'' x 48'' x 27''-30''

    Votes: 14 36.8%
  • 96'' x 36'' x 27''-30''

    Votes: 24 63.2%

  • Total voters
    38

KingTriton

Active Member
View Badges
Joined
Nov 24, 2015
Messages
311
Reaction score
127
Location
Louisiana
Rating - 0%
0   0   0
So I'm looking into my next build and undecided on which one I want. I don't like making big decisions without having a few other opinions first :). Which tank would you choose and why? The tank will be SPS dominate.
 
I like more depth, assuming it is easily accessible to you. If the placement makes the back 12inches or so unreachable then I'd go with the narrower width/longer tank.

Will this be a Peninsula or against the wall, in wall, etc?
 
easy decision 8 footer all day and I would go with 27 inch. you don't wanna go too deep with SPS, keeps your lighting options open

I just bought a 96 x 34 x 34 and I'm pretty worried about how I'm gonna light it.
 
I agree that the 4' depth is awesome, but then again... 3' is really nice too!
I mean if you were comparing the 4' to 2', then its a no brainer.
But since 36" is still really nice, I'd be seriously considering the 96" tank. Think of the ****** fish you could have in that!
Also, I wouldn't go any taller than 27". Even that is a bit tall for me. I'd probably keep it at 24" max.
 




The 96'' would have a internal C2C overflow using the door space as a place to set my drains (easier access). Fwiw, I would have more space on the sides with the 96'' than pictured.
 
Last edited:
I have a 96x36x20. I would go with your 36" width because it's hard enough to reach. A 48" wide tank is really hard to access, and in a SPS tank, you need easy access to the whole thing. The extra length helps to keep tangs and other free swimmers happy too.
 
After having a few different sized tanks over the years, I always enjoy the shorter ones with more depth. Definitely makes it easier to work in and there's more area for critters. Plus my super short gf doesn't have to get her arm up to her shoulder wet... heh :)
 
I love my 8 footer x24x24". I can reach everything. My lights hit the bottom with no problem. And best of all, my fish love all the swimming room!
 
I think tanks that are noticeably more deep than high really add a great sense of depth. Some thing like 36 or 48 deep and 24 high give the impression that you're looking directly into a reef rather than a fish tank. An infinite sense of depth.
 
Based on the room layout I think the 96" tank would be better for access. I am building 2 tanks right now that are 48" wide but I am also building an access platform behind the tanks to I have full access for the tank. Without access to all sides of the tank I would not go with a 48" wide tank.
 
Without access to all sides of the tank I would not go with a 48" wide tank.

I was thinking of going 48'' and putting in a eye bolt to secure it to a joist that is supported by a top beam running across multiple joists (this is how I hold up my 150lb punching bag in garage). Maybe this way I came throw on my rock climbing harness on and surf the entire tank lol...

Maybe a little bit of this action :D jk

 

IF YOU HAD TO TAKE A REEFING EXAM, WOULD YOU PASS?

  • Yes!

    Votes: 32 45.7%
  • Not yet, but I have one that I want to buy in mind!

    Votes: 9 12.9%
  • No.

    Votes: 26 37.1%
  • Other (please explain).

    Votes: 3 4.3%
Back
Top