WOW, you guys are spendin some cash!!!
I currently have my 25 Tall...which initially cost me/roommates $400 for tank/filter/light/CC substrate/heater/lack rock/misc junk. I lucked out and left that apt. with the tank/inhabitants.
I have since spent an unknown amount on fish, inverts, live rock, salt, test kits, auto feeder, new heater, etc.
I am in the process of putting together my 75 Gallon upgrade.
Purchased so far:
$180 Tank /Megaflow Overflow (drilled)
$75 DIY Stand
$210 Coralife Lunar Aqualight
$60 Mag 700 Return Pump
$525 Total
Plan on Purchasing:
$165 AquaC Urchin In-Sump /w pump
$50 Sand/Live Sand Substrate + Rock Pool Bottom Crude (for fuge)
$50 DIY Canopy for lighting
$40 Salt
$20 Glass for Baffles (for 20G Sump/Fuge)
$325
Planned Equipment Total: ~ $850
I have spent a lot of time researching and price hunting to find the best prices, without skimping on quality where it is needed. I don't agree that this hobby has to be a complete money pit. You just need to be smart about purchases.
$$$ More Live Rock
$$$ More Fish, Inverts, & Corals
To me, priceless...