Need suggestions for good filter for planted 55

Look into a canister filter if you want to minimize surface aggitation.

www.bigalsonline.com has a good selection at some of the lowest prices that I've seen. I have ordered from them several times, and I've been pleased every single time.
Currently, I'm using both Fluval and Eheim canister filters, neither has dissapointed me yet, although from just handling the filters, it seems that the Eheim filters are built much better. Others have also used Filstar filters with good results as well, but I haven't tried those yet.
If you want more info on canister filters, I'd suggest searching the General freshwater forum, or asking there if you cannot find what your looking for... the "best" canister filter has been debated to exhaustion over there =)

HTH
-Richer

Its regarded that hang on back filters dont work with CO2 injected setups because they waste too much CO2. The movement of the water getting routed through the intake and circulated in the outside filter box and sprayed back onto the surface outgasses too much. I have heard of people having some success with Aquaclear HOB's slightly modified, but your best bet is a canister filter. That way you can put the output way under the surface and keep surface disruption to near 0. I've used a Fluval 404 in my 46 gallon the past year and have been happy with it. Hasnt broken or leaked or anything yet. I got it on sale for 85 dollars at bigalsonline.com. You might be able to find it similarly priced at some other online discount shop as well. I see them in pet stores for 150....rip off. It might be overkill when you look at the box and what the recommended filters are for aquarium sizes, but I like having a good current in the tank.

Keep in mind in a planted aquarium you dont need much (if any)bio filtration since your plants do that. All I fill my canister with is some sponges and filter floss and clean it out once a week. All you need is mechanical filtration. A lesser rated fluval or other canister would work also im sure, it just gives you less water flow and can be had probably for about 60 bucks. You might try selling your Emp on ebay too, I see them going for 20-30 bucks in good shape.

Check out PetSolutions.com. They had the Ehiems on sale last time I looked. Great prices and good service too. Also, I would stay with the Ehiem Classic type, ie. 2233.

I have the Ehiem 2235 on my planted 55g and it works fine. I went with the larger one to get a little better circulation.

Alex

I'll have to second the Eheims. Any of the classic series are great. You could also go with a 2222 or 2224. The 2222 will give you less flow if you have delicate plants. The build quality is excellent. I've heard that the handle on the Ecco series is delicate and very easy to break...

I just bought an Eheim Classic 2213 for my planted tank and its great.

When I read reviews and comments about how the Eheim was "Silent" I thought well I suppose it makes a little hum.......but nope, nothing.

Very pleased with my Eheim

The 2213 is a very nice filter. Difficult to prime, but still, it is excellent value for money. Better than the Ecco IMHO.