so im in the process of getting a 180 to 200gallon tank built for me but i cant decide weather i need to get overflows and holes drilled.

adding the overflow $60
plumbing $50
sump $60
return Pump $100
media $ ??????????

Fluval fx5 $400

please give me your thoughts on which route i should follow as i was hinting towards a sump and then changed my mind to a fx5 and now i just cant decide.

and the tank builders cant start building my tank untill i make up my mind.

so if anyone can give me their opinion it would be much appreciated.

I am in the same boat as you with my new tank.

Was looking at sump or Fluval FX5 or buying another TetraTec 1200 and have 3 running linked. Also looked at Ehiem but twice the price of the FX5.

Although from people I have spoke to and actually seen running the FX5 it is a really good filter. However I was looking at running inline heater and UV filter. But due to the size of FX hoses 25-28mm Diameter this would not be easily possible.

Think I will have 3 Tetras running and linked so that only have two inlets and two outlets in each corner.

When I looked at FX5 in the flesh the inlet strainer is huge and very difficult to conceal, however outlet is good design with adjustable nozzles.

My tank will be 500L and not sure cost and work involved would justify having a sump.

Lots of people rave about sumps, but cannot really comment on them as I dont have one. But main benefits are easy cleaning, can hide away heaters, can add plants to help with filtration, dosing of additives or chemicals.

Big filters will be difficult to work on in cabinet for moving, changing filter media such as floss, etc. You can only hide or remove heaters or eqipment by using inline types.

Would be interested in peoples views as well as I will also be ordering new tank in couple of weeks.