Filter choice

[glcasper]

Hi all,
I have a new 75 gallon (which I won't be able to set up for a few weeks, but I am doing my homework and researching all my choices). It will be freshwater planted. Now, looking at filters, I am reading a lot of good things about Eheim classic 2217 and Rena Filstar XP3. I never thought I could get an Eheim because everybody talks about how pricey they are, but right now a Rena is more expensive! Still, both of them sound very efficient and great. Which one would you choose, and why?
Up until now I have only had smaller tanks, so I have always used HOB filters. This is new and exciting for me!
Thank you for your answers!

[Squawkbert]

2217 is tough to beat - That or Rena, you'll be happy enough. If the Eheim is cheaper, I'd be all over it - especially if it comes w/ media (BigAls sells 'em w/ media, generally).

[glcasper]

Yes, it comes with media, and with the Rena you still have to get the biological one.

[ibr3ak]

I'd make getting a filter my number 1 priority and worry about media later. There are plenty of cheaper alternatives that can be used as filter media (both bio and mech).

[Mgamer20o0]

kensfish.com is the cheapest to get a xp3 at i think $120 last time i checked. whats the price your finding for the eheim? i think as the prices get closer more and more people going to spend the extra money and just get a eheim.

[glcasper]

kensfish.com is the cheapest to get a xp3 at i think $120 last time i checked. whats the price your finding for the eheim? i think as the prices get closer more and more people going to spend the extra money and just get a eheim.

The Eheim is going for $119 at Big Al's. The Xp3 is at $169. !!!

[Mgamer20o0]

ok at kensfish.com the xp3 is $115. the xp3 has 350gph and the 2217 264gph. the xp3 has more area for media i think plus the easy quick release.

http://www.thatpetplace.com/pet/group/603/product.web?utm_source=tfp_tpp&utm_medium=email&utm_content=aquarium&utm_campaign=AES032408&utm_term=603
i would also check out the marineland c series RB loves them.... they are on sale too.... the 360 was like $130 when you click and see the discount.

[glcasper]

Thanks everyone for your help! I still haven't decided, but I have a little bit more time to think about it. I will be back from my trip on the 24th, and then I'll start with the cycling, so I'll let you know by then!

[JamieB]

Wow! thats really good prices for the Rena xp3. I bought one 3 months ago and spent $200.00. I love the great Job it does on my 90gal. the quick release is worth it's weight in gold!

[glcasper]

Wow! thats really good prices for the Rena xp3. I bought one 3 months ago and spent $200.00. I love the great Job it does on my 90gal. the quick release is worth it's weight in gold!
Thanks for that, that is exactly what I wanted, to know about your experience with it. And yes, it sounds like a great deal, that is definitely the lowest I have seen. What biomedia did you get for it, and are you happy with it?

[JunpoweR]

Are the Rena better than Fluvals?