Help! skimmer choice
 

I've been thinking of buying a Bubble Magus Curve 7, with a big factor being my budget. However I see the Omega 180 i Protein Skimmer on sale now at Premium Aquatics for $264 or about CAD340.

No brainer, right?
(For 72" 110 tank)

Both are decent and do the job. I think the Vertex is quieter.

I know a lot of places carry the Bubble Magus Curve models. I’m guessing a lot has to do with them being a lower price option. I don’t personally have one, but I’m considering it for when I build my 210g (curve 9) based on price and gallon rating.

Haha,you guys aren't helping:)
I find I'm being very indecisive with choices for my tank build, just not confident. Seems the Vertex has better user reviews & is being sold at $650 compared to $300 at JL. Is this truly a. Ase of you get what you pay for?
I prefer to buy local but it does seem this Vertex sale price is pretty good

Problem is when you purchase something from a US mail company is if you have a problem with it, doesn't work right or is defective.

I usually try to limit my US mail order purchases to things that are not mechanical or electronic. I find the few dollars I save isn't worth the risk.

Might be some good sales for Black Friday.

Grab the biggest you can afford! I just put an alpha 170 on my 125 and my nitrates and phosphates are lower than when I carbon dosed. I bought it used so I could afford it. Retails for $1200 but I got it for $280. Just my $.02.

This is my main worry as well keeping me from hitting the buy button. Having said that, it does seem like a reputable company

Personally I would go for the Omega. I've used them and they work great. They do take a while to tune, but they pull skimmate like a champ once it's set up.

Can you not get a price match at J&L for ease of warranty if required. I like having something local if something goes sideways. But if you can afford it buy the vertex as that’s a great brand and has been around.

I wish they made a larger skimmer in the omega line as the alpha is insane for price.

The Omega is very tempting. If I were in your shoes, I'd first contact PA and get an insured shipping quote (not USPS).
I'd then approach Jeff with the #s and see what he will do.
For ease of warranty I'd pay extra to deal locally.

Heck, if I wasn't so happy with my skimmer, I'd be doing all this right now!