Looking to start a tank in a couple months.

[CTBowes6]

I've always wanted to start a saltwater reef tank, but have never gotten around to it. I am in college so the finances have never really added up. Recently, however, I gained a second job at a reef store in Orlando. As the only one at the store who doesn;t have a tank, I finally feel it is time to take the next step. I will be moving in about two months so I will wait a bit before starting. I'll be saving some cash in the meantime.

So I have some questions.

Due to space restraints and college living, I am looking at about a 30g tank. Would it be cheaper/more budget efficient to get an all in one system or buy stuff separately?

I am looking at keeping some fish, live rock, and corals, nothing too high maintenance.

I am also trying to map some of the expenses I will be running into. Any thoughts?

 

[NyteGTI]

I've always wanted to start a saltwater reef tank, but have never gotten around to it. I am in college so the finances have never really added up. Recently, however, I gained a second job at a reef store in Orlando. As the only one at the store who doesn;t have a tank, I finally feel it is time to take the next step. I will be moving in about two months so I will wait a bit before starting. I'll be saving some cash in the meantime.

So I have some questions.

Due to space restraints and college living, I am looking at about a 30g tank. Would it be cheaper/more budget efficient to get an all in one system or buy stuff separately?

I am looking at keeping some fish, live rock, and corals, nothing too high maintenance.

I am also trying to map some of the expenses I will be running into. Any thoughts?

AIO vs build your own is a toss up. if you're looking for everything included for basic LPS, zoos, & mushrooms(all the easy stuff) most of the AIO tanks will have no problem with them. but you're stuck with everything they gave you. you could do a 29 standard tank & feel that you have more tank than in a 29 biocube. but thats just my opinion. it all comes down to what you like.

as far as cost, I know around here I can find 29g biocubes unmodded for 100-250$ depending on if they're the HQI or not. which is pretty much all you'll need other than a small powerhead, thermometer, test kits, salt, etc. (the usuals)

HTH

Ryan

edit:
CRAIGSLIST IS YOUR FRIEND!!!!!!! it will decide for you what type of tank you'll end up with because you'll find a deal you couldn't pass up.