canister filters vs sumps

I though that fluval X5 is supposed to be rated for 400 gallons? I have one and really like it. I have never used a sump. Have you looked at pond canister filters? Check out http://www.thatpetplace.com/tetra-pond-bio-active-pressure-filters

2 fx5's would not be overkill. They may do the job depending on your bio load. I ran 2 fx5's on my 400 (6x4x2.5) for a while now its sumped because I wasn't happy with it... just depends what route you decide you want to go. A sump would be less expensive and better filtration. Fx5 would be more quiet and would get by. But be far from overkill IMHO

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It depends who you ask. If I where you I would stick with your current dual 300w heaters and if you have a problem maintaining temp get a third one.

I use 1 500w and one 300w for my 400. Do you have tops on the tank? That really helps hold heat it

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Sump required plumbing drilling or relying on risky overflows with potential to overflow your tank. Canisters don't! But less capacity for filtering. I'd do two fx5 Mabe an ac110 and sponge filters!

My fish life is sparked up with Polys

on my 400 gallon i run a sump which has everything in it... heaters(2x300w jagers), air etc... eliminates the things u need to have in ur display. i also run a fx5 which is purely just to keep the BB alive in the filter so i can use it on other tanks wen i do cleans n things and help reseed new tanks etc....

all in all i would say 2xfx5 on a 400gal is no way near overkill but this also depends on bio load... and in my opinion do urself a sump as it has so many benefits. in my sig is a link to my 400gal if u wanna check it out i should probly updste it a little but u get the idea