What pumps do you use?

[captexas]

I am looking at getting two pumps for my 75g setup. One as a return for my sump that splits to 2 3/4in. Sea Swirls and another that is for a closed loop that splits to 4 locline nozzles. I have looked at lots of pumps and still don't know what to get without spending too much money. I know Iwaki, Dolphin, and Sequence are supposed to be the best pumps but the last two are really for larger applications. There are also the Little Giant and the MAK pumps, but I hear different opinions on those.

So, what pumps do you use or have used and what are your opinions on them?

Thanks, Chris

[Tim Marvin]

Little giants seem to use a lot of energy and don't push enough water IMO. Mak seem to be pretty good, Magdrives are good, but vibrate a little. I like the dolphins, you can get smaller sizes.

[matt]

I'm about to set up a similar system; 100 gal, with about 1000 gph return and 1000 gph closed loop into 2 sea swirls. The pumps I ordered were a genX mak 4, for the closed loop, and the new blueline HD for return. The blueline is supposed to be a knock off japanese iwaki md30rxt. I'm real happy with the american iwaki (WMD20rxt) in my 45. The japanese iwakis are supposedly quieter and cooler. But, they're alot more expensive, If the new blueline pumps really do perform like the japanese iwakis, they could be a real nice pump for the money. I'm a bit skeptical about blueline stuff; the bulbs and co2 set up received blah reviews. But these pumps seem too good to at least not try.

One thing I might do is use the genX as the return pump, because it's pressure rated and might handle the head pressure better. I should have my system up and running in a few weeks; I'll let you know how it works out. I'm shooting for a powerhead-free tank.

Matt

[MikeP]

I'm using an Eheim 1262 right now, realtively low power consumption, conservatively rated and low heat output and quiet for a submersible.

[Tim Marvin]

Right, Eheims are good I forgot about them.