Emperor 400 or Aquaclear

[Derringer]

Hate the emperors - had a couple they were both loud. Now my HOBs are strictly penguin - mainly 350s but have a few of the smaller ones as well. Never had a noisy penguin impeller.

 

[pinkertd]

I have four emperor 280's running, all quiet and have not had any issues with them ever, they've been up and running for year. I'm also running an AC 110 which blows the small fish around a bit. I prefer the emperors.

 

[excuzzzeme]

I think I just about have one of every popular HOB filter in my parts box! I have found that the two I like best are the Penguins and the AquaClears. I also have a couple of spray bar systems that seem to work quite well. I currently run an AC70(300gph) on a very lightly stocked 55 and a AC110(500gph) on my 90. They give me no grief at all.

 

[meili.harrison]

I just got my Emperor 400 on Saturday, ordered at petsmart.com and used a coupon. I ended up only paying $36 for it! I set everything up and I'm happy with it. It is not that noisy, the little splashing sound is quite nice and soothing. The aquarium is not in my bedroom, so it doesn't bother me at all. Thanks everyone for your input!!

 

[kay-bee]

From the mechanical filtration and economical stand-point I prefer the Aquaclear. The filtration sponge is not only very effective at mechanical filtration, but also doesn't have to be replaced at the interval that filter cartridges do (the sponges are highly re-usable and can last for years).

 

[SchizotypalVamp]

I don't see why you can't replace the cartridges with sponges and use a scissors if ness. to make them fit, though.

 

[meili.harrison]

That's my intention too. I figure I can use any kind of sponge filter. I read in a different forum that someone just cut the filter cartridge, removed the carbon and added whatever filter/floss/sponge they wanted and it works great.