How should I filter a 40gal breeder

[ThePBM]

Are 2 AC200's good enough? or should i go with 2 AC300's?
That's basically what i've narrowed it down to. Not a fan of biowheels.
There was that H.O.T. Magnum mini canister that cost the same as 2 AC300's, if anyone has reviews on that.

Still open to any suggestions other than biowheels. Budget under $60. I was a hair away from ordering 2 AC200's for $20 a pop when someone told me to go with 2 AC300's instead claiming they had twice the media capacity as 200's.
Is that a good idea? is the media from 2 AC200's not enough for a 40gal?

 

[Wolf3101]

A lot would depend on what your putting in the tank. If I was on a budget I'd start out with a single HOB and add an air driven hydro5 or 4. Even though they have their uses I'd never run an AC as my only filtration.

 

[ThePBM]

I will probably just have 3 moonlight gouramis 4-5", 1 cae 5", 25 white clouds 1-1.5", and 1 black lyretail molly 2.5". i haven't been able to think of anything else to add to the mix. i do have 18 swordtail fry that are growing up in a hurry, but they don't seem to match.

anyway, a hydrosponge was already going into the tank. that was a given.
so i have the budget for 2 HOBs, are you saying i should only get one? you've shot down ACs but didn't offer an alternative.

 

[rhinod56]

depends on you wants/needs and personal preferance. could run a canister. or 1 or 2 HOBS, and you should be fine

 

[ThePBM]

alright. i'm going to go with 2 ac300's i guess.

 

[ThePBM]

well, i put in my order at petsmart for two AC300's @ $28 each. Got free shipping, also googled up a code for an additional $5 off. cost me $53 total.

 

[Wolf3101]

I didn't tell you not to use an aqua clear...I said I didn't recomend running one of them as an only filter. I suggested one AC300 as adiquate when used along with a hydro5 that could in all honesty run the tank all by itself. I run 55 gallon breeders and fry tanks on nothing but hydro5's all the time.

I didn't make any other brand recomandations because you already decided against what would be your best option IMO/E for a HOB unit and cannisters would be too expencive.