180g skimmer?

[rhodan]

I'm researching a good skimmer for my new 180 I'm setting up. I will also have a 100 gallon sump so the skimmer must handle the 280 gallons. I'm planning on having lots of rock and a 2 in sand bed with a medium fish load. I know MRC is a sponsor and I'm definitely looking at the MR-2, but I would like to know about other options. I already know that MRC makes one of the best skimmers on the market. I was looking at an ASM G4, but I read somewhere they are scaling back production or something like that, which makes me nervous. So I started looking at the PCI (octopus) RPS-2000, but I haven’t found much info on it yet.


Please offer me some guidance.


Thanks.

 

[cameron]

Everything I have read about the newest Octopus line is that they are good skimmers. Early on they had some problems, but now everyone seems to be migrating to them since they are descent knock offs much like ASM skimmers. If you have an unlimited budget, Deltec... Euroreef... etc. However if money doesn't grow on trees at your house I think the Octopus line would be good choice.

 

[xyzpdq0121]

FOr a tank that size, I would look at a downdraft skimmer. One was for sale not too long ago on the forum and it was cheap, like $80. The normally run about $500. Looked nice, you just need a big pump to push it!

 

[cameron]

Also the new ATI Bubblemasters at reefgeek are getting great reviews, but they are a bit pricey.

 

[rhodan]

I think the MRC is the best bet. The only downside I have heard is that it takes a little while to dial in...But hell isn't that true with all skimmers...I have pleanty of time to dial it in, I don't have plenty money to purchase an super highend model.

Besides the MRC's skimmers I can upgrade later and Andy's shop is right around the corner for me to ask questions.

Thanks for the help.