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Setup suggestions for a beginner? (1 Viewer)

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BRM

Joined
Apr 27, 2012
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I was wondering if anyone had any suggestions on a tank setup for a newbie? I was thinking a biocube nano. Is this a good starter?
 
Small tanks are the hardest, I started with a 10gl and once I mastered that I then moved up into the easier larger tanks. Change happens faster in smaller tanks so attention to water parameters will be something you learn fast.
 
smaller tanks can be difficult.. I started with ten gallon and am now at a 29 gallon bio cube( nice lights, powerhead..etc).... Im now looking to buy a 55-75 gallon reef ready tank as soon as someone has one for sale... My bio cube looks amazing though for a small tank and gets lots of attnetion... HOWEVER, space is limited....( but with that in mind it CAN be cheaper)
 
I definitely don't want to get in over my head. I also want to be as economical as possible to start.
 
I would suggest a 75-90 gallon tank. They give you enough room that they open up a lot of sticking possibilities. A tank this size won't change if it happens as quickly. Fairly econmical yet big enough that it shouldn't be too difficult to handle.
 
I would definitely go with a 40 gallon breeder as a starter. I started with a 10 gallon (Hard to maintain) and upgraded to a 40 gallon breeder...much more easy to take care off
 
deneed4spd said:
40 breeder tank with an overflow kit or 75 g reef ready
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Well said and to the point. When I started, my mom wanted me to use the 10 gallon I already had. I refused. I started with a 29 gallon and was very happy with that; however- I would have liked to start larger because with a tank that size, it really limits the fish that you can have. Plus, they're readily available. It's a perfect happy medium.
 
Anyone have any suggestion on a LFS that is helpful with a new set up?

I think I will go for the 40 gallon breeder. Your comments are very compelling! :)
 
Check our list of sponsors - ALL of them are helpful

Where are you located? Easier to give a recommendation if we know your location

Also - I recommend a 40 breeder for first set up
 
BRM said:
Anyone have any suggestion on a LFS that is helpful with a new set up?

I think I will go for the 40 gallon breeder. Your comments are very compelling! :)
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So you are close to Something Fishy and World of Fish. Check them both out and see what kind of deal you can get on a 40g. I know Something Fishy will drill it for you as well.

As far as lights and skimmer I would watch the classifieds here. You will find some great deals on some quality equiptment.
 
I started with a 55g that wasn't drilled. I quickly upgraded to a 75g reef ready. And I love it. I am in the process of setting up a rr 40 breeder as a 2nd tank. I have been bit by the bug. I would highly recommend getting a drilled tank and a sump. It looks so much better and is easier to maintain. And go as big of a tank you can afford and have room for. Keep an eye on here, the sponsors, and craigslist.org for deals. There are a lot out there right now. Good luck and welcome.
 
Thanks for all the info! I am sure that what started out as a small project is going to get bigger and bigger as I get ready to buy my setup! Haha! I am so excited though. I'm sure I will be back with more questions....:)
 
I vote 90 gallon..... you will save money if you don't have to upgrade later and there is more room to work with
 
Id go 40 breeder, or mix it up and get a 40 long for a more panoramic style tank I think the smaller tanks are more enjoyable myself. The big tanks let you get more fish and larger ones, and have more leeway with water swings. I find its also a balance of cost as well. There is the cost of the larger tank and stand to start with but a bigger increase in filtration, light, etc. And once its set up you'll have to fill it with a lot more fish and corals to make it look complete.

The 40s are a good balance of being kind of big to have the easier care level, but also not huge that it breaks the bank getting it set up and stocked.
 
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BRM said:
Thanks for all the info! I am sure that what started out as a small project is going to get bigger and bigger as I get ready to buy my setup! Haha! I am so excited though. I'm sure I will be back with more questions....:)
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The thing I have found to be the most consistent in this hobby is that the projects never end. :freak6: But this club is full of great people who are willing to help out.
 
I agree with those prior that suggested going as big as you have the space & $ for. This hobby is not for the faint of heart, and once you start, it will take on a life of it's own! I started with a 55, added another 55 within three months, then a 120 within six months! I wish I had found this club for advice on MANY areas when I was getting started. I definitely would have started with a bigger tank if I had known then what I know now. Welcome to the obsession! :cool:
 
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