New to the Hobby and new 57 gallon mixed reef plans

[PhillyGeeks]

So I've been lurking for a bit here and learning a ton. My only experience is multiple successful FW tanks in the past. We bought a Deep Blue 57 gallon rimless 36x18x20 and plan for a mixed reef. There isn't a fixed budget and we prefer reliability with a good degree of technological assistance(automation). However, I don't need top of the line, but would prefer to save dollars where I can.

Long story short is we bought the tank and are looking to refine our setup further.

Please help where you can!

1. Lighting: I am close to buying 2 AI Hydra 26's, which seems great at $270 each at this time (any further incentive and I will bite) vs 2 ecotech radion xr15w pro. From what I read either of these would be enough coverage on this tank, even for more light demanding fauna. Is this correct? Other more economic options?

2. Skimmer: In addition to the 57 gallon display tank we are planning a 40 gallon sump with live rock and macro-algae. What would be the minimal filtration rating. Would a heavy load 100 gallon(57DT + 40g sump) rating be sufficient? or would say a reef octopus INT 110, at a slightly lower, rating be sufficient for a potential heavy bioload tank?

3. control: As was mentioned, we like technology, the plan is for either an apex controller for all, with necessary modules, or an apex controller with ecotech reef link control of radion lights and flow pumps. For the dual option the apex would control ATO, dosing pumps, heater, return, skimmer, sump light, with an outlet or two for expansion. is the apex controller with reef link control of lights and pumps crazy? seems reasonable given that apex alone would require an extra power bar and module for controlling ecotech gear or AI if I choose the hydra 26's

[thegrun]

1. I run 3 AI Hydra 52's on my 120 but I think you will be fine with two Hydra 26's on your tank.
2. When sizing a skimmer most of us double the display tank size and don't worry about the sump volume unless it is very large. The Reef Octopus INT 110 should be fine.
3. I love the Apex controller with Fusion internet access, I don't have any experience with Reef Link so I can't give you good advice there.

[TattedUpFishGuy]

Welcome to reef central, I'd try to give advice but I'm still learning as well. The great people on this site are extremely knowledgeable when it comes to reefs that's for sure

[PhillyGeeks]

Originally Posted by thegrun

1. I run 3 AI Hydra 52's on my 120 but I think you will be fine with two Hydra 26's on your tank.
2. When sizing a skimmer most of us double the display tank size and don't worry about the sump volume unless it is very large. The Reef Octopus INT 110 should be fine.
3. I love the Apex controller with Fusion internet access, I don't have any experience with Reef Link so I can't give you good advice there.

Thanks for the input! I was a little nervous on the skimmer size given, at an extreme, I would like to keep multiple SPS with a not insignificant fish load. Its good to hear the 110, or an equivalent, should be fine.

[PhillyGeeks]

Originally Posted by TattedUpFishGuy

Welcome to reef central, I'd try to give advice but I'm still learning as well. The great people on this site are extremely knowledgeable when it comes to reefs that's for sure

Thanks! Once I have some more equipment, and the stand built, I will put a build thread up, and hope its as good as the many I've seen on here

[PhillyGeeks]

Would there be any /upside/downside in doing the Reef Octopus 150 INT for a 57g DT and 29g sump vs the 110 INT? For example, does the 150 require flow through a 29g sump that may be too high?

[PhillyGeeks]

My other consideration is seaside aquatics CS 3.5, or 5.5 if there is a potential benefit