Bigger is better right?

[helimech]

So after having a 29 Gal Biocube for a few months, I've decided that I'm going to push my budget and my space and set up a 75 Gal display with a 50 Gal tank to act as a sump and perhaps refugium as well.

I'm still new to this, so feel free to correct or comment!

So far I have The display and sump tanks, just finished building the main support platform for the stand, and an MP-40.

Seems I still need a few things.

I picked up some dry rock (approx 35 lbs)
I have some rock in my biocube, but have to decide if I will transfer it to the new tank.
And I will be picking up a bunch of live rock from a fellow Canreefer next weekend.

I still need to decide if I will use a skimmer or not (leaning toward yes)
I still need to get an appropriate size pump for the return to tank. (not quite sure what size I need at there will be a head of approx 4 feet.)
Still need to "build" the sump (aka put in deviders, etc.)

I'm not quite set on what livestock I'm gonna have, but I'd even just be happy with my shrimp and two Chromis'. I'm actually more intersted in the softies! That's what I need more space for!

[WarDog]

Sounds like a good start! I'd get a skimmer rated for 150 to 200 gallons, as I'm sure one day you will find some LPS and sps making their way into your tank! Also the Eheim 1262 would be a good reliable pump for your set up. Looking forward to your build and the pictures to follow! Welcome to Canreef!

[Dearth]

As Wardog stated a skimmer is well worth the investment yes it can be costly but in the long run it will give you piece of mind

If you are leaning towards soft corals do you have a preference in mind are you looking for low or tall corals, slow or fast growing, colourful or bland

Keep us updated and don't be afraid to ask questions even if you think it's a stupid one sometimes the stupid sounding questions are the most important questions to ask.

Pictures are a must we demand pictures 😜

[gtareef]

I would recommend to go with a skimmer.

As for dry rock, ex. Marco rock are known to release PO4. Just make sure to strip as much PO4 from the rock prior adding them to your tank. You can search the forums on how to do this.

I recommend Eheim as well. You should add a check valve.

[matt_C]

A bubble magus curve 7 would work out perfectly for you.
as for a return pump yo would want something in the 700-900 gallon an hour range even high if you plan on running reactors and such off of it.
Depend on the noise level mag drives last forever but are a little bit louder, eheim 1262 is a great pump but still loud compared to a DC pump
There arew many different options when picking out a pump. just figure out what one is quiet enough for you.
For the sump just make sure you have a steady skimmer section to make your skimmer perform at the best for you.

[helimech]

Well I guess I will have to keep my eye out for a good deal on a skimmer that i like. I just wish I could make one they seem simple enough. (JK)
you want pics, well Here you go!

So I turns out that the sump was a little tighter than i anticipated

As for what I like, I am still finding that out. Colour of course is always a bonus!