More filtration needed - choices......

[tomterp80]

I have arrived at the conclusion that my 75g plant tank is under filtered. I have for some time suspected this, but upon reading Amano's article on filtration in TFH this month, now I know it.

I currently have one filter, a built-in foam cylinder, with a powerhead atop that pushes 400L/hour, or about 6.7L per minute, vs. Amano's guideline of 20-30L per minute. I'm at one-third this level.

Poor circulation is just one of the manifestations of this situation.

So I want to augment with a canister filter to fill the gap. There's another consideration- I want to put this on my "secret santa" list, with a gift limit of $150. So what's the best fit for my situation, under $150?

Among things I've thought about, the RENA Filstar XP2, which is 300 gph and designed for up to 75g. I like what Ive seen about this one, but it has quite an array of filter media options, some of which look to be counter productive to a nutriented plant tank (like, a phosphate filter). So if I go that way, I'll be coming back here looking for help on what not to do so far as filter elements.

Another option, the Eheim 2222, which is only 132 gph and rated for 40 gallons, but would be more powerful than even my existing filter. plus I like the Eheim brand. And its the only Eheim that would fit under the spend limit.

The filter needs to be quiet.

Thoughts, other alternatives?

[halak]

I have a Rena XP3 for my 125. I paid $105 for it in Petsmart even though the store price was $180. The trick is that they match their own Internet prices, so just print out the online price and take it to their store. I got mine almost a year ago, but their policy is probably still the same. As far as the filter goes, I am satisfied with it-no problems so far. Also, it is quiet.

[tomterp80]

Do you use your XP3 in a planted tank, and if so, what filter elements do you use in it?

[tomterp80]

Do you use your XP3 in a planted tank, and if so, what filter elements do you use in it?

[Aaron]

Another option might be the Eheim 2026. If you shop around online you can find them for $160.00 or so. From what I've read the Eheim produces better flow, even though it is rated lower.

For me it's worth the extra $20-$30 for the Eheim. They last a lifetime if you take care of them and they're whisper quiet.

[halak]

I use my XP3 in a planted tank (you can see an older picture in the show your tank part of the forum-I should update it). I have sponges and ceramic rings in it. I used cabron once for about two weeks to clear up the brown coloration that had come from the driftwood.

[Aaron]

Oh, I wasn't saying the XP3 isn't a decent filter, it is. I just prefer to get the Eheim because they are proven to last so long. I don't think the XP3 has been around long enough to know how they last over several years.

[tomterp80]

Upon further research, it appears the Eheim 2224 Pro can be had for under $140, so this has now moved to the top of my list.

Does anybody think the Pro II series is vastly superior to the Pro series?

[Ltrepeter2000]

Maybe not far superior but I prefer it having had a couple of each. Just makes maintenance easier I think. Thats my two cents

Rob

[tomterp80]

Another option might be the Eheim 2026. If you shop around online you can find them for $160.00 or so. From what I've read the Eheim produces better flow, even though it is rated lower.

For me it's worth the extra $20-$30 for the Eheim. They last a lifetime if you take care of them and they're whisper quiet.

The 2026 it turned out to be! Very sweet indeed.