Any one using the new Vortec pumps?

Znut Reefer · 09/22/2006, 10:39 PM

Anyone using these new pumps yet on their sps tanks? Just curious how they compare to the Tunze streams.

Philwd · 09/23/2006, 12:48 AM

Yes I run 2. I had 2 Tunze 6000s before. Day and night difference. I always had trouble aiming the Tunzes to get good flow and not blow away my sand bed. With the Vortechs the flow is almost double the 6000s and its much gentler. I had a few corals not directly in the path on the Tunze but close enough to have stunted growth. Those and most other corals love the mass movement the Vortechs give me. There may not be as a big of a difference comparing to a 6100.

Downside is no controller ..yet. Wireless controller due Q1'07. Till then I'm running on a AC jr wavemaker function. Other downside for some but not me is no aiming capability. From the comments it looks like Eco tech will show some aiming attachment products soon. I just placed 4" from top in center of side panel and let them rip. Flow is very wide.

Final downside is there have been many teething issues with early adopters like me. Its seems most if not all have been resolved. Icecap and Ecotech have provided superior customer service.

There are several threads on Icecap's forum with many more details.

Cheers.
Phil

CeeGee · 09/23/2006, 07:22 AM

The no controller is a deal killer for me. I am getting ready to order a set of 6000's and a multicontroller as a result. I also like the fact that I can upgrade the 6000's to 6100's if I so wish. Also the tunzes have been around for awhile and I like that kind of peace of mind.

I really wanted to give the new kid a shot but for the kind of money these things cost I would rather go with a sure thing.

trueblackpercula · 09/23/2006, 07:35 AM

CeeGee
I really wanted to give the new kid a shot but for the kind of money these things cost I would rather go with a sure thing.

Good idea and I have a vortech and think it was way over priced. The only thing I like about it is that I can move it around and pplace it lower in the tank than normal power heads. Buts thats it there are no other reason to buy one for that kind of money. If they let me return it for a full refund i would.
Michael

easttn · 09/23/2006, 08:12 AM

Hi znut. I had not considered changing just because of two words, Roger Vitko. If he leaves I'll try something else, but until then no way. Best in the business.

CastleRock · 09/23/2006, 09:18 AM

Tried the Vortech
Loved the flow when it worked.
Support was great and service same thing Great.
But in the end mine was just not reliable and I returned it.
I now have 2 Tunze 6100's in my 120.

Neptune777 · 09/23/2006, 09:52 AM

ooops ....DP

Neptune777 · 09/23/2006, 09:53 AM

They were full of issues in the beginning (new product syndrome)....Their customer service is like no other and they have since worked out all the issues from what I can see. Mine have been running non stop for a long time now without any issues........I really like them! The controller is due out early next year......there might even be a sneak peek at MACNA this weekend from what I understand.

I can fully understand why people are hesitant to buy them after hearing/reading about all the issues.......I just didn't like the footprint of the Tunzes in the tank.......the Vortechs are the underdog and will definitely give Tunze a run for their money in time.

With the maxi-mods being such a hit I am wondering who will come out with an affordable pump that is controllable and yet a fraction of the cost of the Tunzes and Vortechs. No need for all the bells and whistles.....just a reliable inexpensive pump with 2000+ gal wide flow....I am surprised MJ has not come out with a mod kit of their own to satisfy those who don't like DIY....Hint Hint!

Znut Reefer · 09/23/2006, 10:16 AM

I'm using 4 streams now on a 550. 2 6100's and 2 6200's all on a multicontroller. I think I need to get at least 2 more Streams for my tank. So thats why I was curious on the Vortecs. But for the price they are going for, I'd just as soon as buy the Streams. We know they are a proven product. And have no issues to really speak of in my opinion. I have been very pleased with mine. And I really like having a controller.

So time to save up and go for another set.

Thanks all for the replies.

Covey · 09/23/2006, 02:35 PM

Why is the controller a big deal? I see the Tunze controller as a draw back it only works on the streams. Vortec doesn't have a wavemaker but every other wavemaker available on the market would work. That seem like more of a plus to me. You can run them off one of those $50 natural wave or run it off an Aquacontroller and have more feature than you can dream of. Can you turn on a tunze from your PDA? Not that you would need to but can you?

Trying to fiqure out who has the best customer service between ASH and Roger is point less because thet both rock.

Anyway I don't own either but have 3 MJ prop mods. At some point as the acro grows in I think I will get a couple Vortec and hide the prop mods it the rock

I am with neptune it would be nice if someone started chipping away at the prices.

Angel*Fish · 09/23/2006, 06:54 PM

They have a prototype for the controller at MACNA - I think they're going to get it out as quickly as they can

After seeing them - it's worth the wait - they are fabulous!

mnreefgeek · 09/23/2006, 06:59 PM

Anyone have a picture of one in their tank?

NuReef · 09/23/2006, 08:16 PM

The prototype controller is full of features. Just bieng able to simulate a T-Storm in the ocean....Just have to have this new toy!!

NuReef

Serioussnaps · 09/24/2006, 12:19 AM

just wait till the nanostreams come out to complement the streams and i have a feeling vortech will be going................................bye bye

BRISK495 · 09/24/2006, 12:33 AM

Yeah, these pumps are great. I have notcied a huge difference in al my SPS corals. They seem to really like the constant flow. Also, much more aestetically pleasing to the eye. No mini trash can looking things in the tank. Especilly if you have a smaller tank and want the great flow like a Tunze.

orangekush4 · 09/24/2006, 01:04 AM

Tunze Nano streams

Covey · 09/24/2006, 01:07 AM

Nano streams are like 1500GPH for $200 with no controller nice design but nothing that will put the big streams or vortec out of business.
http://www.premiumaquatics.com/Merch...de=Tunze_pumps

There neat but nano size with nano flow. Now if they remodeled the big streams like that they may be on to something.

dgasmd · 09/24/2006, 08:05 AM

I have 8x6200 streams in a 120"x48"x30" tank. Not only there is no way in heck they put out 5000 gph, but they are nothing like the 4 close loops with 4 sequence 5800. I still hate the looks of it and how much they cost too. The controllers in larger tanks I find them to be a waste of money, hence I sold mine within a week of getting it. Do they cut on heat from close loop pumps and cut on electricuty significantly? SURE, that is the only single reason I got them.

I personally think the vortechs long term will prove to be a better option in terms of flow rates and patterns. However, they are still very overpriced like the tunzes are. Then again, if you think like a manufacturer, why would they sell them cheaper or significantly cheaper than what people is very much willing to pay for the competition? I wouldn't!

gastone · 09/24/2006, 08:14 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by Covey
Nano streams are like 1500GPH for $200 with no controller nice design but nothing that will put the big streams or vortec out of business.
http://www.premiumaquatics.com/Merch...de=Tunze_pumps

There neat but nano size with nano flow. Now if they remodeled the big streams like that they may be on to something.

Actually, the link you posted is for the 6055 which is controllable.

You can get this model http://www.premiumaquatics.com/Merch...de=Tunze_pumps
or this
http://www.premiumaquatics.com/Merch...de=Tunze_pumps
both of which are under $100, though they are not controllable. But for the price...

Garrett.

REEF-DADDY · 09/24/2006, 08:16 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by dgasmd
I have 8x6200 streams in a 120"x48"x30" tank. Not only there is no way in heck they put out 5000 gph, but they are nothing like the 4 close loops with 4 sequence 5800. I still hate the looks of it and how much they cost too. The controllers in larger tanks I find them to be a waste of money, hence I sold mine within a week of getting it. Do they cut on heat from close loop pumps and cut on electricuty significantly? SURE, that is the only single reason I got them.

I personally think the vortechs long term will prove to be a better option in terms of flow rates and patterns. However, they are still very overpriced like the tunzes are. Then again, if you think like a manufacturer, why would they sell them cheaper or significantly cheaper than what people is very much willing to pay for the competition? I wouldn't!

Interesting that you say that about the 6200. How much do you think they really put out? I ask because I am thinking of getting one, but can't decide between that or a few maxi-mods.

Neptune777 · 09/24/2006, 08:44 AM

Holy smokes....I just watched the Reefcast Demo of the new Vortech controller at MACNA.....simply AWESOME!

dgasmd · 09/24/2006, 08:49 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by REEF-DADDY
Interesting that you say that about the 6200. How much do you think they really put out? I ask because I am thinking of getting one, but can't decide between that or a few maxi-mods.

3500 at best! That is just a guess I have no objective way to measure it.

REEF-DADDY · 09/24/2006, 02:19 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by dgasmd
3500 at best! That is just a guess I have no objective way to measure it.

Wow I may be better off with 2 maxi-mods for what I am doing.

Thanks

Covey · 09/24/2006, 02:38 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by gastone
Actually, the link you posted is for the 6055 which is controllable.

You can get this model http://www.premiumaquatics.com/Merch...de=Tunze_pumps
or this
http://www.premiumaquatics.com/Merch...de=Tunze_pumps
both of which are under $100, though they are not controllable. But for the price...

Garrett.

6055 is controlable I was just pointing out that for $200 you still don't get the controller. Not a whole lot of price break over the big Tunze.

The two smaller non-controlable at 660GPH and 1200gph should put a hurt to the sieo market at that price.

samsfishnchips · 09/24/2006, 02:52 PM

dgasmd,

6200 is rated at 5283 gal/h, why are you stating 3500 at best!?thx

sam

09/22/2006, 10:39 PM	#1
Znut Reefer Premium Member Join Date: Nov 2001 Location: Claxton, Ga Posts: 3,396	Any one using the new Vortec pumps? Anyone using these new pumps yet on their sps tanks? Just curious how they compare to the Tunze streams.

09/23/2006, 07:22 AM	#3
CeeGee Registered Member Join Date: Jun 2002 Location: TN Posts: 3,272	The no controller is a deal killer for me. I am getting ready to order a set of 6000's and a multicontroller as a result. I also like the fact that I can upgrade the 6000's to 6100's if I so wish. Also the tunzes have been around for awhile and I like that kind of peace of mind. I really wanted to give the new kid a shot but for the kind of money these things cost I would rather go with a sure thing. __________________ My algae WAS special. Current Tank Info: 75 gallon display, 40 gallon breeder sump, RLSS R6i, ATI Powermodule, Apex, Ecotech MP40's

09/23/2006, 07:35 AM	#4
trueblackpercula Registered Member Join Date: Nov 2003 Location: STATEN ISLAND Posts: 7,517	CeeGee I really wanted to give the new kid a shot but for the kind of money these things cost I would rather go with a sure thing. Good idea and I have a vortech and think it was way over priced. The only thing I like about it is that I can move it around and pplace it lower in the tank than normal power heads. Buts thats it there are no other reason to buy one for that kind of money. If they let me return it for a full refund i would. Michael __________________ Life is to short to buy frags ! But for FREE I'LL take them ><((((º>`·.¸¸.·´¯`·.¸.·´¯`·...¸><((((º> ·´¯`·.¸. , . .·´¯`·.. >((((º> LIVE SAND ITS THE CURE........® Current Tank Info: 120 CUBE Live sand Mitras lx6100hv MRC MR 2 single becket MP40 power head Aquamedic dosing pump using B-ionic

09/23/2006, 08:12 AM	#5
easttn Premium Member Join Date: Jul 2002 Location: East TN thank God Posts: 2,423	Hi znut. I had not considered changing just because of two words, Roger Vitko. If he leaves I'll try something else, but until then no way. Best in the business. __________________ HONOR.......Simply put, A VETERAN - whether Active Duty, Retired, National Guard or Reserve - is someone who, at one point in their life, wrote a blank check made payable to "The United States of America," for an amount of "Up to and including my life." That is HONOR, and there are way too many people in this country who no longer understand that. --Author Unknown-- Current Tank Info: Maintenance Free

09/23/2006, 09:18 AM	#6
CastleRock Premium Member Join Date: Jan 2002 Location: Colorado Posts: 1,266	Tried the Vortech Loved the flow when it worked. Support was great and service same thing Great. But in the end mine was just not reliable and I returned it. I now have 2 Tunze 6100's in my 120. __________________ I never saw a wild thing sorry for itself. A small bird will drop frozen dead from a bough without ever having felt sorry for itself. D.H. Lawrence

09/23/2006, 12:48 AM	#2
Philwd Premium Member Join Date: May 2004 Location: Gilbert, Az Posts: 4,057	Yes I run 2. I had 2 Tunze 6000s before. Day and night difference. I always had trouble aiming the Tunzes to get good flow and not blow away my sand bed. With the Vortechs the flow is almost double the 6000s and its much gentler. I had a few corals not directly in the path on the Tunze but close enough to have stunted growth. Those and most other corals love the mass movement the Vortechs give me. There may not be as a big of a difference comparing to a 6100. Downside is no controller ..yet. Wireless controller due Q1'07. Till then I'm running on a AC jr wavemaker function. Other downside for some but not me is no aiming capability. From the comments it looks like Eco tech will show some aiming attachment products soon. I just placed 4" from top in center of side panel and let them rip. Flow is very wide. Final downside is there have been many teething issues with early adopters like me. Its seems most if not all have been resolved. Icecap and Ecotech have provided superior customer service. There are several threads on Icecap's forum with many more details. Cheers. Phil

09/23/2006, 09:52 AM	#7
Neptune777 Premium Member Join Date: Feb 2006 Location: Virginia Posts: 1,700	I have 2 ooops ....DP

09/23/2006, 09:53 AM	#8
Neptune777 Premium Member Join Date: Feb 2006 Location: Virginia Posts: 1,700	I have 2 They were full of issues in the beginning (new product syndrome)....Their customer service is like no other and they have since worked out all the issues from what I can see. Mine have been running non stop for a long time now without any issues........I really like them! The controller is due out early next year......there might even be a sneak peek at MACNA this weekend from what I understand. I can fully understand why people are hesitant to buy them after hearing/reading about all the issues.......I just didn't like the footprint of the Tunzes in the tank.......the Vortechs are the underdog and will definitely give Tunze a run for their money in time. With the maxi-mods being such a hit I am wondering who will come out with an affordable pump that is controllable and yet a fraction of the cost of the Tunzes and Vortechs. No need for all the bells and whistles.....just a reliable inexpensive pump with 2000+ gal wide flow....I am surprised MJ has not come out with a mod kit of their own to satisfy those who don't like DIY....Hint Hint!

09/23/2006, 10:16 AM	#9
Znut Reefer Premium Member Join Date: Nov 2001 Location: Claxton, Ga Posts: 3,396	I'm using 4 streams now on a 550. 2 6100's and 2 6200's all on a multicontroller. I think I need to get at least 2 more Streams for my tank. So thats why I was curious on the Vortecs. But for the price they are going for, I'd just as soon as buy the Streams. We know they are a proven product. And have no issues to really speak of in my opinion. I have been very pleased with mine. And I really like having a controller. So time to save up and go for another set. Thanks all for the replies.

09/23/2006, 02:35 PM	#10
Covey Registered Member Join Date: Jun 2005 Location: Davenport IA Posts: 2,018	Why is the controller a big deal? I see the Tunze controller as a draw back it only works on the streams. Vortec doesn't have a wavemaker but every other wavemaker available on the market would work. That seem like more of a plus to me. You can run them off one of those $50 natural wave or run it off an Aquacontroller and have more feature than you can dream of. Can you turn on a tunze from your PDA? Not that you would need to but can you? Trying to fiqure out who has the best customer service between ASH and Roger is point less because thet both rock. Anyway I don't own either but have 3 MJ prop mods. At some point as the acro grows in I think I will get a couple Vortec and hide the prop mods it the rock I am with neptune it would be nice if someone started chipping away at the prices.

09/23/2006, 06:54 PM	#11
Angel*Fish cats and large squashes Join Date: Aug 2001 Location: Houston Posts: 5,951 Blog Entries: 1	They have a prototype for the controller at MACNA - I think they're going to get it out as quickly as they can After seeing them - it's worth the wait - they are fabulous! __________________ Marie So long, & thanks for all the fish! __________________________ Current Tank Info: Pairs: flame angels, cherub angels, Red Sea mimic blennies, yellow fin fairy wrasses, clowns, mandarins, blackcap basslets, shrimp gobies, damsels, dispar anthias, yellow clown gobies, threadfin cardinals --- Tanks: 100g reef, 2 x 30g refugiums

09/23/2006, 06:59 PM	#12
mnreefgeek Registered Member Join Date: Mar 2003 Location: Farmington, MN Posts: 136	Anyone have a picture of one in their tank? __________________ Chad The beer I had for breakfast wasn't bad, So I had one more for dessert..........

09/23/2006, 08:16 PM	#13
NuReef Registered Member Join Date: Mar 2000 Location: Houston, Tx Posts: 173	The prototype controller is full of features. Just bieng able to simulate a T-Storm in the ocean....Just have to have this new toy!! NuReef __________________ Every expert was once a beginner. Current Tank Info: 180 gal with bells, whistles and $$$ infinitum

09/24/2006, 12:19 AM	#14
Serioussnaps Registered Member Join Date: Mar 2006 Location: North Carolina Posts: 3,703	just wait till the nanostreams come out to complement the streams and i have a feeling vortech will be going................................bye bye

09/24/2006, 12:33 AM	#15
BRISK495 Registered Member Join Date: Nov 2003 Location: South Harrison, NJ Posts: 1,024	Yeah, these pumps are great. I have notcied a huge difference in al my SPS corals. They seem to really like the constant flow. Also, much more aestetically pleasing to the eye. No mini trash can looking things in the tank. Especilly if you have a smaller tank and want the great flow like a Tunze. __________________ My addiction began as a kid visiting Martin's Aquarium!! Current Tank Info: 100 starphire rimless in planning since January 2012. 100 Gallon Rubbermaid Basement Sump and 65 gallon refugium.

09/24/2006, 01:04 AM	#16
orangekush4 Registered Member Join Date: Feb 2005 Posts: 367	Tunze Nano streams

09/24/2006, 01:07 AM	#17
Covey Registered Member Join Date: Jun 2005 Location: Davenport IA Posts: 2,018	Nano streams are like 1500GPH for $200 with no controller nice design but nothing that will put the big streams or vortec out of business. http://www.premiumaquatics.com/Merch...de=Tunze_pumps There neat but nano size with nano flow. Now if they remodeled the big streams like that they may be on to something.

09/24/2006, 08:05 AM	#18
dgasmd Registered Member Join Date: Dec 1999 Location: US Posts: 3,402	I have 8x6200 streams in a 120"x48"x30" tank. Not only there is no way in heck they put out 5000 gph, but they are nothing like the 4 close loops with 4 sequence 5800. I still hate the looks of it and how much they cost too. The controllers in larger tanks I find them to be a waste of money, hence I sold mine within a week of getting it. Do they cut on heat from close loop pumps and cut on electricuty significantly? SURE, that is the only single reason I got them. I personally think the vortechs long term will prove to be a better option in terms of flow rates and patterns. However, they are still very overpriced like the tunzes are. Then again, if you think like a manufacturer, why would they sell them cheaper or significantly cheaper than what people is very much willing to pay for the competition? I wouldn't! __________________ Arguing with ignorant people is an exercise in futility. They will bring you down to their level and once there they will beat you with their overwhelming experience. Current Tank Info: Currently out of the hobby, but considering a Comeback V 2.1!

09/24/2006, 08:44 AM	#21
Neptune777 Premium Member Join Date: Feb 2006 Location: Virginia Posts: 1,700	Holy smokes....I just watched the Reefcast Demo of the new Vortech controller at MACNA.....simply AWESOME!

09/24/2006, 02:52 PM	#25
samsfishnchips Premium Member Join Date: May 2004 Location: New Jersey Posts: 2,328	dgasmd, 6200 is rated at 5283 gal/h, why are you stating 3500 at best!?thx sam __________________ Every moment is a chance for happiness. Current Tank Info: 90G 99% SPS