Back in the hobby after a long break

[Omen]

Hi everyone,

Back in the hobby after a long break.
I'm starting back up with a tank slightly shorter than a 3ft although slightly higher and wider.
Going to be keeping it simple with maybe a few clowns and some soft coral.
I'm hoping you guys will give me some good advice as I'm sure the technology has improved since I last did this about 10 years ago.
I know how to cycle the tank and all of that stuff but I'd like advice on equipment please and the best places to buy.
I have a lighting unit already, it consists of 5 T5's but 1 or 2 are looking a bit dim.
I was thinking of buying a metal halide or an led unit instead of having to replace 5 T5's every time .
I was wondering what you guys could recommend.
I'm going to start building a bigger tank soon so it would be ideal if I could get something that I could use for the bigger tank once it's built.
Also need to get a protein skimmer.
The tank doesn't have a sump, in fact it's very similar to The Vlei's Nano I saw on the forum with the compartment filter at the back, so I'd need something to fit in there.
Again don't want to get something rubbish that won't be any use in the bigger tank.
I'd rather do a bit of overkill on the smaller tank.

 

[TaahirS]

Welcome to MASA.

What are your exact dimentions so we know what led to recommend.

 

[Omen]

Thanks very much, it's 80cm long x 45cm wide (of which compartment filter takes up 11cm of that at the back) and 45cm deep.

 

[Omen]

Oh ja I also have to get a pump for the compartment filter. If my maths is any good I've worked out that the tank holds about 160l.
What sort of flow rate should I be looking at?
I'm presuming the best option would be to fill the compartment with live rock?

 

[TaahirS]

You could go quad T5. Or a Maxspe Razor 130 watt.

Both of these options will allow you to keep more light demanding corals later on. Also keep an eye on the for sale section, there are some good deals.