34 Gallon Red Sea MAX Aquarium
I know that the Red Sea MAX Aquarium technically isn't considered a nano reef since it's 34 gallons in size, but for the sake of this review, I'm going to place it in the nano reef category. I feel that it deserves to be reviewed here because it is a great aquarium and is perfect for cube reef aquariums. Somewhat like the EcoCube in that it comes with everything necessary to start a nano reef aquarium, the Red Sea MAX is a high-tech, quality, and complete solution for anyone that wants to get a great nano reef going without hassle, headaches, and hardship.
The Red Sea MAX is very pleasing to the eye, and the curved glass edges and integrated hood give it a sleek and cool self-contained look. This aquarium really is self-contained, with all of the high-tech and powerful equipment stealthily integrated and hidden away, out of sight. I know I like to see as little ugly mechanical equipment as possible, so my nano reef looks natural and clean. The Red Sea MAX makes this very easy to do.
As I said, the Red Sea MAX Aquarium System has some great integrated and high-quality equipment. For starters, the lighting system features a 110-watt T5 compact fluorescent 10,000K/Actinic lighting system, which is enough light to support most corals, including many SPS and invertebrates such as anemones. A high polish, aluminum reflector directs light to where it needs to be, and an electronic ballast and integrated cooling fans ensure cool, efficient, and lasting operation. Additionally integrated are blue LED moonlights, for viewing the nano reef at night and encouraging nocturnal behavior.
The filtration system is where the Red Sea MAX really shines, however. A complete, hidden water treatment center is in the MAX, and it is filled with sophisticated and highly-efficient equipment that makes nano reef maintenance a breeze and keeps the aquarium clean and the water clear. In the MAX's water treatment center is a cutting-edge 3-stage filtration system, professional protein skimmer with 320 gph pump, thermostat-controlled heater, compartment for chiller pump, twin circulation pumps with adjustable direction outlets, and much more.
The Red Sea MAX is built for convenience, and access to all components is easy and painless. There are all kinds of ways to access stuff on this thing, and you don't even have to remove the hood to dig around in the aquarium. If you just need to stick your hand in to move corals around or do other maintenance, the front opens up and folds over and provides an opening, as well as forms a stable work place for holding water testing equipment and such. If you need an even bigger opening, the entire hood can be lifted up and secured, like the hood of a car.
Adding to the convenience, there is are control panels for the programmable lighting timers with separate on/off settings for moonlights, waterproof power switches for easy turning on/off of aquarium components , and individually switched power outlets.
Also included in the Red Sea MAX Aquarium Kit is a sturdy and stylish cabinet stand. This contemporary stand has enough space for additional aquarium equipment, such as an aquarium chiller, and other essential nano reef maintenance supplies. Years of dependable use are ensured with the quality wood construction, and only minutes of assembly are required.
And finally, the Red Sea MAX comes with the MAX starter kit, which includes literally everything needed to get a nano reef started, such as 22 pounds of Reef Base marine substrate, 15 pounds of Red Sea Coral Pro Salt, test kits, and more. The Red Sea MAX aquarium is an ideal aquarium for someone who wants to start a nano reef from the beginning, or experienced nano reef aquarists who would just like to try something new. Either way, you won't be disappointed with the Red Sea MAX and it will provide you with years of reliable and pleasant use.
Red Sea MAX Reef Aquarium System Package
