Need some skimmer advice quick!

[fish4brains]

Hey everyone,
I accidentally busted the side of my countercurrent skimmer last night. I don't thing it is salvageable. I have a 150g that has three tangs, a mandarin, an antheus and a maroon clown currently. Right now my coral population is low. While currently this isn't to huge a bioload,I do anticipate ramping up my corals.

Can anyone recommend a very good skimmer for $500 or less. Obviously less is better I need to decide soon, as I would like to order tomorrow so I can get back skimming ASAP. Right now I am looking at the Euro-reef ES250 and the Octopus (I believe it is a 250 also). Thanks in advance.
J

 

[ken_wied]

I have the Euroreef CS series - EXTREMELY happy with this skimmer. Sits in the sump and removes a ton of skimmate. Just my opinion, look into the Euro-Reef. HTH

 

[melosu58]

Moved to General hardware and equipment discussion.

 

[ccCapt]

The Octopus skimmers have been getting great reviews. Good performance and good price. The DNW 200 recirculating skimmer would be a good choice for your 150 IMO.

 

[fish4brains]

Does the recirculating need to be plumbed in? Would it still sit in my sump or be remote from it?

 

[ccCapt]

It's in sump, but it probably can be used outside the sump...not sure. This skimmer comes with the recirculating needlewheel pump, but you need a feed pump for the skimmer. I think they recommend about 2x the tank volume, so a little maxijet or similar powerhead is all you need to feed it.
http://www.premiumaquatics.com/Merc...uct_Code=CV-OCT-DNW-200&Category_Code=Octopus

 

[fish4brains]

Thanks too everyone. After much researching and forum/web-browsing, I went with the ASM G-3. It is described as a "sister" skimmer to the Euro-reef's. For the money and also the quick shipping time (kudos to Premium Aquatics for giving me even better shipping for cheaper than what I had picked out), I think it is the best choice for now.

I appreciate everyone's feedback. Also, if anyone has one of these, any tuning tips are appreciated.
J

 

[ccCapt]

Good choice.