Any thoughts/comments on Fluvals "Chi" 5g kits?

[Mr. Limpet]

I'm looking to rehome our beta (with a shoal of something + plants) in this kit and wondered if anybody has it, used it or possible suggestions on an alternative. A standard aquarium won't fit size or decor wise, so that's why we're leaning towards this one.

TIA

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[itsgracia]

I'm also thinking of getting one of these as a beta tank in my room. I dont know if I would put companions with a betta with a 5 gallon.

 

[fort384]

What is your budget for this project?

I think the tanks look really nice... obviously from the other threads you know the stocking choices will be very limited. The main complaints I have heard on the system: 1. The filter is not great. 2. The stock lighting is somewhat insufficient for growing most live plants.

 

[jenatron]

I have the Chi and Fort is 100% correct. I literally threw the light/filter away.

 

[Mr. Limpet]

I'm also thinking of getting one of these as a beta tank in my room. I dont know if I would put companions with a betta with a 5 gallon.

Yeah, been debating that with my GF, but she wants Elvis to have some groupies to keep him company .

What is your budget for this project?

I think the tanks look really nice... obviously from the other threads you know the stocking choices will be very limited. The main complaints I have heard on the system: 1. The filter is not great. 2. The stock lighting is somewhat insufficient for growing most live plants.

No real limit (happy beta+happy GF=happy me). But I can't see spending $300 on the designer one I've seen (can't remember brand).

Between what you said about filter/LED's and a couple reviews about the open top causing high evaporation and fish jumping out, I'm wondering if there's something better on the market.

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[Mr. Limpet]

I have the Chi and Fort is 100% correct. I literally threw the light/filter away.

What did you replace them with?

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[fort384]

do!Aqua cube glass Mini M -- $50

aqua forest aquarium

Archaea Clip on 13W CF Light -- $38.99 (you could upgrade for a bit more if you want more light)
aqua forest aquarium

Azoo Palm nano HOB Filter -- $8.99
Power Filter for Small & Desktop Aquariums: Azoo Palm Filter

TOTAL: $97.98 + some shipping

The do!Aqua cube gardens are almost as good clarity wise as the regular ADA cube gardens and are comparatively cheaper. The Archaea lights like I linked to are a little pricey, but sharp looking. If you live anywhere near San Fran or ever go there, you could pick the stuff up from Aqua Forest... otherwise there would be some shipping costs involved. All in all, this would be a great setup for a low light tank... Just some suggestions.

 

[jenatron]

What did you replace them with?

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I'm not currently using it. I was considering using it as a pico reef, in which case: an AquaClear 20 and a Par 38.

 

[Mr. Limpet]

do!Aqua cube glass Mini M -- $50

aqua forest aquarium

Archaea Clip on 13W CF Light -- $38.99 (you could upgrade for a bit more if you want more light)
aqua forest aquarium

Azoo Palm nano HOB Filter -- $8.99
Power Filter for Small & Desktop Aquariums: Azoo Palm Filter

TOTAL: $97.98 + some shipping

The do!Aqua cube gardens are almost as good clarity wise as the regular ADA cube gardens and are comparatively cheaper. The Archaea lights like I linked to are a little pricey, but sharp looking. If you live anywhere near San Fran or ever go there, you could pick the stuff up from Aqua Forrest... otherwise there would be some shipping costs involved. All in all, this would be a great setup for a low light tank... Just some suggestions.

15 minutes north of SF, so.... road trip!!

I like the rimless look and size wise, it's perfect.

Thanks fort!

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[itsgracia]

Or you can get a Fluval Edge. The lights on this will probably still have to be replaced if you want plants though but it comes with an AC20.

I just realised you are from N.Cali...so am I!

 

[fort384]

Oh, cool. It will definitely be worth the trip I think. From what I have read, they have some amazing display tanks. You will get a lot of good ideas... just leave the credit cards at home .

 

[fort384]

FYI as well, they are closed on Tuesdays I think, if you were planning on headed down tomorrow.

 

[jenatron]

Take pictures!!

 

[fort384]

aqua forest aquarium

There are some pics of some of their displays at the bottom of that link... I am sure they will be stunning in person...

 

[Mr. Limpet]

Or you can get a Fluval Edge. The lights on this will probably still have to be replaced if you want plants though but it comes with an AC20.

I just realised you are from N.Cali...so am I!

Looked at it, but it's too wide for the shelf. I'll do an instore review, so if you haven't been to the store fort linked, stay tuned.

Oh, cool. It will definitely be worth the trip I think. From what I have read, they have some amazing display tanks. You will get a lot of good ideas... just leave the credit cards at home .

Since they're mini tank experts, I'm sure they'll have some excellent suggestions. As for cost, with the chi+light redo+filter replacement, I bet I'll come in around the same price with a cleaner/better look.

Take pictures!!

I will and thanks for your take on the chi.

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[fort384]

There are some smaller/different shaped cube gardens as well... I am sure you will find something you like. Not sure if Aqua Forest sells that AZOO HOB I linked, but I used that exact model on a 5.5gal for years with great results (at a GREAT price). Something like that would be a good way to shave cost on a great looking setup.

 

[fort384]

I am jealous that you get to go in person... however, it is probably good that I live on the opposite coast and not 15 minutes away, or I would be buying stuff every weekend.

 

[Mr. Limpet]

I am jealous that you get to go in person... however, it is probably good that I live on the opposite coast and not 15 minutes away, or I would be buying stuff every weekend.

There's a few good stores in SF proper, but haven't gone in for some time because the traffic/parking is *$%@# (pardon my french ). Only now, rather than window shopping, I have a mission .

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[fort384]

I am sure there are a few nice stores in a great city like San Fran... but there are only 2 official ADA dealers in the entire USA... and Aqua Forest is one of them. I am kind of an ADA fanboy if you couldn't tell

 

[jenatron]

I am kind of an ADA fanboy if you couldn't tell

I was gonna say, Fort, you should change your title.