Ultima is one brand of bead filter. I have two 4000 model that I'm using, and one 2000 model that has been collecting dust, and will be put in service soon. I like them a lot. They're similar to pool sand filter, except the media is plastic beads, don't need to be replaced periodically like sand. It has multi-port valve, can be backwash, or flush by turning the valves to the port accordingly. The filter is combination of mechanical/biological. I've known a few people with big or messy fish (one with 8 super size AUL) who use Ultima, and it all work out for them