Protein Skimmer Purchase

[johnsonw2]

I am looking to purchase my first protein skimmer. I have done quite a bit of research and BELIEVE I have found what I am looking for.

I have a 42 Gallon Bow front tank without a sump. The tank dimensions are 36"x17"x21" There is no room for an in tank skimmer with my rock scape.
The tank has been up for about five- six months. As of now the tank is FOWLR but when the tank matures further I would like to begin a reef.

I understand a good rule of thumb is to buy a protein skimmer recommended for double a tanks capacity. I am deciding between either the Reef Octopus BH1000 HOB or the Reef Octopus BH2000 HOB.

The BH1000 seems like it would provide fairly well for my tank but I was wondering if I should spend the extra $30ish for the BH2000 instead of rebuying down the road. I would love to upgrade to a larger tank and add a sump but I believe I will be with this setup for 2-5 years.

Although most reviews I have read said micro-bubbles were limited after break-in they are still a concern of mine. Will the BH2000 create more micro-bubbles?

As i said earlier I have never had any experience with a protein skimmer before and your advice is greatly appreciated before I make a purchase.

THANK YOU!

 

[johnsonw2]

Gettin ants in my pants about this purchase. Cant hold myself back. I want a protein skimmer NOW lol

If anyone owns one of these models and would like to share some input I would appreciate it but come tomorrow morning i will most likely just buy one. Thanks

 

[Wy Renegade]

Reef Octopus makes great skimmers, and with skimmers bigger is always better. Afraid I can't answer the question about the microbubbles, as my Reef Octopus is an in sump rather than HOB.

 

[johnsonw2]

Thank you! I was looking for any input and that was enough to secure my mindset into making my purchase