Eclipse Systems

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fishie111

AC Members
Feb 5, 2007
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Hello:

I am currently fishless cycling a 2.5 gallon tank, in which I plan to keep a betta.

While I have been waiting and researching tropical fish, I'm thinking that I also want a second, larger tank (10-15 gallons).

Some choices that I am looking at:

1) Standard glass tank with a Tetra Whisper filter
2) Standard glass tank with Eclipse system hood
3) Eclipse system 12

Any opinions on which system might be the better choice?

Thanks!
 
the eclipse systems are great with everything built in. If you went with the 15 without an eclipse hood you would have to purchase lighting as well. I had an eclipse system 12 for 6 months it was my first tank it was wonderful. No problems dead silent and water perams were always great.
 
I like my 12g - It is THE perfect size for me for easy maintenance, for my bathroom, everyone seems to like it, I love the fish I can put in it: If you want between 10-12 fish community fish, it's about just right. It's good for a place you don't want things (cats) to get into, or to keep possible cosmetics/aerosoles etc., out of the tank (which concerned me having it in a bathroom.) It's also really great if you don't know alot about filters and equipment, etc.

However, somebody had previously mentioned being annoyed with their "cheap plastic parts" and I can attest to that - remove the cover carefully, or the swinging plastic opening will fall out, and one of the plastic hinges will break off. Also, be careful when you place the hood over the wires: the snap-in piece that tries to allow room for your wires and keep the fish inside, one side easily breaks off. (So now it's taped on to the back with scotch tape. *lol*)

And it does scratch, so definitely be careful not to put anything nearby it. (Like the hood propped up against the side, rocks on the inside, etc.)
 
There are many that are perfectly happy with the Eclipse line. Just not for me.

I'd say a regular glass tank with an AC filter. I also do not care for the quality of some parts you get in the all in one kit set ups.

:cool:
 
I would steer anyone clear of the Eclipse tanks for anything bigger than 2.5 gallons or so. I'll just say that the design and function of those things is so sub par it's downright annoying. Not to mention I stand strong on the idea of always buying separate components when it comes to aquariums, and also to electronics. The reasons are many. But mainly it's because you are stuck with everything you get. No room for changes or upgrades. No room for expansion. And what's worse if you get a malfunction you are forced to go through the hassle of having to replace very particular parts vs. the freedom of choice offered by taking the time to pick all of the parts of your system from the bottom up; allowing you to revise, replace, etc as per your wishes and needs.

All I remember from my Eclipse Corner Five is that the filter was kind of weak so I wanted to add another one...but couldn't because that would involve cutting through tough plastic. I remember having trouble with the lid closing properly because you had to shove all of the cords from the light, filter and heater through these ridiculous little precut tabs. The light was built into the hood in such a way that it raised up with it and thus anytime I wanted to clean, move decor, prune plants, etc. I could only do it by having my gf shine a light in from the side. Not to mention that to add more light to the tank would have taken serious customization work. So medium to high light plants were out.

So for the money I paid for this stupid thing I could have not only just gotten a proper glass (yes folks, glass...it's just superior.) 5.5g aquarium, but I would have been able to pick all of my own components such as filters, lights, etc. I eventually did and I couldn't be happier.

Eclipse sucks.
 
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I still don't like the idea of not being able to pick each component of an aquarium or electronic setup. One rule applies to both: your system is only as strong as its weakest link.

So say you get an all in one from Hagen - of the likely components that come with it you'll get a very good filter but a not so good heater and air pump. (Plus do you really need the air pump?) You'll also likely be paying for fish food which isn't as good as other choices, and sometimes get a water conditioner which again isn't as good as other choices. (No need for aloe vera or slime coat additives in water conditioner. It just adds more organic stuff to the water that you really don't need.)

Plus if you shop carefully, take advantage of PetsMart's price matching and/or various sales from other retailers, you might even end up spending less if you buy everything one part at a time.

So going back to the weak link idea - by picking everything separately, you'll be able to choose not only the perfect hardware for your needs, but also know you're picking something that has been known as a reputable, dependable piece. I know that I personally feel that the extra few dollars it takes to buy a Rena heater rather than a Hagen heater is money very well spent.
 
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