Starphire 135g or regular 180g?

[Circa]

135 gal 72"L x 18"W x 24"H
(includes: tank, starphire front, starphire bracing, starphire lids,
tinted overflow chamber,and drill holes for drain & return)

These are the specs for my upcoming tank. Now I was originally going to go with a 180g tank, but when I saw how good starphire glass was I knew I had to have that on my new tank. Because of costs if I want starphire glass this is gonna have to be the size of tank I will get. The thing is I am wondering if 135g tank is still good? The main thing I am gonna lose on this tank is depth.

What do you guys think is it worth forgetting about starphire and just going with the 180g? Tell me your opinion, I know it is ultimately my decision but I would like to hear what you all think?

Thanks,
Circa

 

[chris_h]

I think if you get a 135 you will wish you had more width, so you should go with a 180.

 

[esmithiii]

I LOVE my 180. Would never go smaller.

E

 

[Carpentersreef]

I think that the size difference will make more of a difference to your fish's behaviour and you'll enjoy that more than having a clearer view of less space.

Mitch

 

[Brian J]

My vote goes to the 180.Bigger is always better

 

[Circa]

Its good to here from you guys, everyone I talk to tells me to go with the 180. But as of now I like the idea that I could fill up the tank with rock faster than the 180. I guess what I am trying to say is that I want to achieve a fuller look more quickly.

Keep em comments coming...

 

[redneck]

Go 180. It's a great tank size. Use a DSB, to minimize your need for LR.

You would seriously regret getting the 135. It's too skinny.

Repeat your new mantra: 6x2X2,6x2X2,6x2X2...

 

[Anonymous]

One thing about this hobby, nothing good happens fast. Take your time, be patient. The animals and your pocketbook will appreciate it. The order of importance is as above. Patience, patience, patience

.

That being said, go 180.

 

[esmithiii]

Circa:

I used a PVC frame to make my liverock go further. Check it out:

 

[Circa]

Don't worry guys you have me convinced. I am going bigger.

 

[clyde]

or go for a 180 starphire ?

not 3 sided, just the front glass part.

 

[shadetree]

Circa,

Have you looked into the pricing of a Starphire tank? Inter-American who has been building most of them is in Calgary I believe, most people have said that they are comparable in price to regular tanks. IMO, if you are hesitant to get an 8' length tank, get a 30" wide 6' tank. It leaves all kinds of options and room for aquascaping. Check out this guys recent experience with Inter-American http://www.canreef.com/ubb6/cgi-bin/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_topic&f=1&t=000127

Scott