Canistar Filter Recommendations

[skiffalope]

Howdy

Looking to see if anyone can give me a recommendation for a canistar filter. I've looked at the Fluval 405, XP3 Filstar and Magnum 350. The Fluval is pricey. The Magnum looks too small. The XP3 looks good, but seems to good to be true at the price point (99 bucks NIB).

I was looking to see if anyone had experience with these models and could give me some insight. I'd hate to spend money on any model and have to replace it later. I'm already at that point now with my Emperor 400 which is much too loud.

BTW, this will be an 80g tank with no fish yet, just getting it up and running.

Thanks.

 

[catastrophi]

the xp3 filstar is a really good choice! works good and rarely has any problems. highly recommend it

 

[skiffalope]

the xp3 filstar is a really good choice! works good and rarely has any problems. highly recommend it

Thanks. What about media issues? Do I have to use the Rena Charcoal (BioMaxx or something) or can I use other media. Do they have to be in baggies or does it support open charcoal? Just looking for insight on the media issues. I don't see the media for this filter in too many pet stores and that causes me some concern.

 

[TwoTankAmin]

If possible- go with an Eheim, Rena if not. Media choice is up to you and the needs of your tank.

On your Emp- pull it apart, clean it well, esp the impeller well. It may be a tad noisey for a couple of days as the ook builds back up.

 

[Sly_Marbo]

I just got an Eheim 2026 from Big Als. Great deal, $150 for the filter, media, and special intake and outtake. Heard they were really good for planted tanks. I like it already

 

[dsbrasw]

I just purchased an XP3. I also have a Magnum HOT. I could not believe how easy the XP3 was to set up and start! It doesn't have all the small parts and O rings like the Magnum. As for noise, its alot quieter than my HOB filters. Big Al's currently has it for $94.99 online. I printed the ad and took it in to
PetSmart. They met the price, no questions asked! (Their in store price was $179.99!!!!).

 

[beatle]

I have an XP3 as well. Its media baskets are too open to support loose charcoal, but I don't use that in my canister anyway, as I only clean it every month or two. Get potscrubbers for bio media. It's quiet and easy to set up, as others have mentioned.

 

[skiffalope]

I just purchased an XP3. I also have a Magnum HOT. I could not believe how easy the XP3 was to set up and start! It doesn't have all the small parts and O rings like the Magnum. As for noise, its alot quieter than my HOB filters. Big Al's currently has it for $94.99 online. I printed the ad and took it in to
PetSmart. They met the price, no questions asked! (Their in store price was $179.99!!!!).

Wow, I will have to try this. That would be cool. And thanks to you and everyone. I think I'll try the XP3 and see how it goes.

 

[misopeenut]

eheim.
hear people using them for 10+ years no probelm.
have one for myself i like it it doesnt look so cheap.

 

[nursie]

Wow!! I've heard of Petsmart matching their own internet add, which is cheaper than store prices, but I didn't know they's meet someone elses add. I'll have to check that out.

I have 2 XP filters now and I like them. I have a 2 and a 3.
They have filter media baskets, but the mesh on the tops and bottoms of the baskets will allow fine filter media to slip through, so you would want mesh bags of some kind. I have sponges in mine of differing densities, some rena biostars, and some other brand ceramic rings. I also have polyester fiberfill in there...Walmart brand I believe.
I need to check out where to get foam and cut it to size. It's just been easier to buy, and I reuse forever anyway.