Losing my Mind!!!

[Dorking It]

I have been reefing for a little over a year now. I can not seem to keep coral happy but its ok; frustrating but slowly figuring it out. I purchased a red sea xxl750 v3 second hand (steal of a deal for the setup) and it has been good to me so far but ....... I keep seeing the failures so it's good until it's not. Since my solid wood floors, livestock and sanity all matter here is the plan with some questions.

Planet Aquarium mega matrix 310 external overflow with PVC bottom (I know if makes it custom). Since its going to now be custom, should I have the returns drilled to 1" instead of 3/4" (looking for high flow tank). What are the pros and cons? I currently have 4 MP40s and 2 MP60s on my 750 and I would think that would be good for the 310. Should I think about closed loop so I can eliminate the pimple on the ends of the tank? If I did the 1" returns for overflow and 2 1" eductors on the bottom (closed loop - with 2 drains 8" up on the back wall) eliminate the need to the MPs?

I am going back and forth on an 80/20 stand vs the planet stands and canopy. Anyone have the planet stand (heritage) and how do you like it?

Looking at the synergy SK60 sump with dual plates for clarisea rollers. Anyone have this sump and when you order with the clarisea dual roller plates is the main overflow drain split between the 2? If split like this is the only true benefit to allow more flow and rolls last longer?

Any and all feedback is very much appriciated.

Daniel

 

[Reefing_addiction]

Bump

 

[Dorking It]

I'm hoping to get some feedback. Bump to the top

 

[ZoWhat]

See if the Planet folks will share some customer contact info on 310s they've sold

I know my next aquarium will be a Planet. Our best LFS near me is a husband wife team, late 30s early 40s.... industry mover and shakers. they travel a lot fir Industry trade shows

They don't mess around with any inventory if it's not the best out there. They have several Planets on display

 

[Reefing_addiction]

Also check out glass cages @Joe Glass Cages for custom tanks


It’s where I had mine done

 

[lesismore]

I second reefing addiction’s thumbs up for Glass Cages. In the end, I sorted though the weeds and was down to 3 possibilities, Glass Cages, Planet Aquarium or Waterbox. All 3 had very positive qualities and built a great tank. Nonetheless, when it came to having the ability to produce a truly stunning tank and equally stunning stand, combined with the array of options offered, Glass Cages was my choice. I’ll start a new build thread here soon as I await my tank and stand. The interaction and overall responsiveness, knowledge, friendly attitude have made me feel very thankful that I chose Glass Cages for my custom build. It’s a big one at 300 gallons and something I have always wanted. I honestly can’t wait to get my reef started. I’ve had a number of saltwater tanks in the past, but this is the dream one.

I’m glad you are not rushing the process. I took my time and learned as much as possible. It’s a huge commitment of time and money. I probably spent a year researching builds, reviews, features, threads and talking to local fish stores. I felt very well educated and informed and time and time again I read of failures from other builders and stellar reviews for Joe and the kind of tank he’s producing. I’m in Mesa, Arizona. Thankfully, shipping options through them were also good. This is going to go right to my LFS that’s doing the install.

Unlike Waterbox it’s not mass produced in China. Each one is custom, hand built in the USA. More than anything, I don’t want a tank that can fail. Again, I chose the best option I felt I had in that regard. Good luck with your process! I’d say take the same approach with your equipment so that you end up getting off to a great start.

 

[Reefing_addiction]

I’m working on getting mine running

I finished the stand myself as they only offer to paint it. Live the way it came out- yes I still need to finish the doors lol

I thought I was going to have to move right after they shipped the tank. Thankfully the landlord didn’t decide to sell….now all the fun!

 

[lesismore]

I’m working on getting mine running

I finished the stand myself as they only offer to paint it. Live the way it came out- yes I still need to finish the doors lol

I thought I was going to have to move right after they shipped the tank. Thankfully the landlord didn’t decide to sell….now all the fun!

Congrats!! Things are looking good. It will be fun to see your beautiful setup in action!