What is the best protein skimmer

[kalvoda]

I have been shopping around for a good protein skimmer to go on a 30 gallon reef with 30lbs live rock with some inverts and soon some fish...the sand bed is only about 1-2" deep and i dont want to get any more for a DSB...live rock i might get 10-15lbs more..the skimmer would probably be the main filtration and i want one that is extrememly efficent..I was thinkin a berlin hang on or the berlin hang on turbo..are these two any good or are they too much for a 30gallon...Thanks for the help

 

[nm reef]

I have no experience with berlin skimmers...but I do use a CPR bacpac2r and I would not hesitant to suggest looking at one. Quality product and in my opinion outstanding product support/customer service. Worth looking into. Also...just curious why no more ls? I believe ls/lr is the vital part of a healthy/stable reef...and can be a major component of your filtration(even more so than a quality skimmer)

 

[kalvoda]

the reason for no more live sand is for one i dont want to add it anymore(make to much of a mess) i never even started with LS i used just sand..and plus i dont care to much for sand i would rather spend more on a skimmer and have less sand..just my preference i guess

 

[tru conch]

i have a 30 with a sea cyclone. it has managed, along with a 3" DSB and 35+ lbs of lr to keep my water quality in excellent shape. i just removed the sponge pre filter on the pump. all i have to do is clean the cup out once a week.
you might look into prizm skimmers as well. its really up to you though

 

[piscesblue]

My SeaClone works great on my 30gal... once it gets broken in.

 

[10k]

I use a Berlin, in sump, on a 125. I am extremely happy with it(although I wish it was a turbo). Although it may be just a LITTLE overkill for your tank. They are rated to 180g. You can probably do just as well with a smaller type skimmer, and not have quite as much "junk" hanging off the back of the tank. One that I have in mind is the Excaliber. Adjustable intake and all. Nothing but praise from LFS and fellow hobbiests. Good luck with whatever you decide!

 

[lerch]

I have a seaclone and I really like it. It has taken about a week for it to start pulling out much of anything but I have noticed less algea on the glass.