Just got. 210 gallon tank was looking to buy 2 cascade 1500's because they are like 140$. Or should I really get 1 1500 and one fx5 or 2 fx5's. I really don't wanna spend 500 on 2 fx5s unless I really need to
Fx5 vs cascade 1500
- Thread starter dangerhack
- Start date
The FX5 is bigger and has about 30% more output. It also has a HUGE fanbase!
That being said, I have 2 Cascade filters on 2 separate tanks. A 1200 on one tank and a 1500 on the other, both 90's with multiple filters for redundancy. The 1200 I bought new @ $225, the 1500 used at $80 - everything less media.
They are quiet and work very well if you maintain them and utilize the correct media...The more ceramic rings you can fit in there the better. I also take a strip of blue filter media and wrap the lower tray for close to zero bypass (which is the biggest complaint on the design). Also, check Craigslist, I am always seeing Cascades on there for cheap...You can get 3 1200's for the price of one used FX5...
That being said, I have 2 Cascade filters on 2 separate tanks. A 1200 on one tank and a 1500 on the other, both 90's with multiple filters for redundancy. The 1200 I bought new @ $225, the 1500 used at $80 - everything less media.
They are quiet and work very well if you maintain them and utilize the correct media...The more ceramic rings you can fit in there the better. I also take a strip of blue filter media and wrap the lower tray for close to zero bypass (which is the biggest complaint on the design). Also, check Craigslist, I am always seeing Cascades on there for cheap...You can get 3 1200's for the price of one used FX5...
I have 2 Cascade 1500's on my 120g along with a 9w UV and the tank is crystal clear. I too am soon upgrading to a 210g and my feelings are that in no way are the Cascades able to keep up on a 210g no matter what they say they are rated for. They leave a ton of physical debris in the tank. They are better to use full of bio or chemical media.
I actually purchased an FX5 for my 210g and a 36w UV. Right now I am debating to add both Cascades along with the FX5 or to just buy another FX5 and add it to the new set up. The only reason I am leaning toward adding the Cascades is that I use the Hydor ETH 300wt in line heaters I have; so it would be easy to get heat to the new tank. I really do not like in tank heaters and my other option is to spend even more on a Lifegard heater module and heater in line with the FX5 or to make a DIY in line heater holder.
All that being said you "might" get good results with 3 of the 1500's on the 210g. But again these are my feelings after using Cascades for the past 2 years.
I actually purchased an FX5 for my 210g and a 36w UV. Right now I am debating to add both Cascades along with the FX5 or to just buy another FX5 and add it to the new set up. The only reason I am leaning toward adding the Cascades is that I use the Hydor ETH 300wt in line heaters I have; so it would be easy to get heat to the new tank. I really do not like in tank heaters and my other option is to spend even more on a Lifegard heater module and heater in line with the FX5 or to make a DIY in line heater holder.
All that being said you "might" get good results with 3 of the 1500's on the 210g. But again these are my feelings after using Cascades for the past 2 years.
DMD123;5063019; said:
Thanks for the info.. some guy at the LFS today said one FX5 would work fine is i got a magnum 8 pump on other side of tank to circulate water to fx5 considering that or maybe coughin up the dough for another fx5 just rather pay 100 for pump then another 240 for another fx5 =(
dangerhack;5063054; said:
One FX5 is a must for that tank but I would totally add a 1500 over a $100 pump. An FX5 and a Cascade 1500 would make a decent combo. But just like me you are probably leaning toward just running two FX5 just the whole money issue!
Wulfonce;5063139; said:I have no experience with the other filters you mentioned but the Fx5 is one badassed filter. I don't regret buying mine at all.
Yea beacuse the cascade 1500 i can pick up for 140 shipped compared to the 240 for the fx5 but maybe for an extra 100 ill go for it just to feel at ease an know for sure my tank will be crystal clear errrr lol .... i guess when i hook them up ill face the return lines on opposite ends to get a good circulation i hear the wter pumps out pretty hard with these. gonna cost me $500 for both gotta prepare mentally ! lol
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=400210750381&ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:VRI
just some food for thought. don't spend more than you have to. and buy used if you can.
just some food for thought. don't spend more than you have to. and buy used if you can.