Vortech MP40W question and your experiences

[NorthStarReefer]

Hi all,
I'm new to TRT- my first post, but have been enjoying reading the forums here for the last few weeks. I'm returning to the hobby after a decade or so hiatus and need to upgrade some equipment on my 90 gallon. Recently got the Outer Orbit Pro 48" 250Wx2halides/T5 combo fixture and love it!

Next i need a new pump- not really tied to a budget but think i ought to keep it to $500 or so. Right now i have a sump flowing 800/hr, koralia 4, and a hagen powerhead to move the water a bit, but would like to ditch the latter 2 for a wavemaking setup.

I think i've settled on the Vortech and would love to hear your thoughts, comments, and experiences on:
1) If this would be adequate for a mixed reef, mostly LPS/SPS setup.
2) I have a predrilled all-glass 90 with a corner overflow- will i need to mod the overflow to run the vortech in a wave mode, or can that be accomplished without having to drop the H2O level to low?
3) The gen2 MP40W is on sale at Fins Depot for $399 - has anyone used this store? I know nothing about them. I usually use Dr. F&S, as i'm not that pleased with my LFS knowledge or stock.
Thanks for any and all help and opinions - i appreciate it!

[crvz]

1) it would work, but I think you'll want more than just the one pump for the tank. point being, it's not too much, but it may not be enough if that's all you rely on.

2) depends on how high of a wave you want.

3) i've heard of them, but I've never used them. A lot of times other places will match prices, maybe you could call marinedepot or DrsFS and see if they'll match the finsdepot advertised price.

good luck!

[NorthStarReefer]

Thanks!
Do you think i could run the koralia 4 with the vortech or would that defeat the wave dynamics/functions? Maybe run it on the opposing side as an undertow, etc.?
I suppose i could couple an early birthday/xmas spending spree and just buy 2 vortechs right off the bat (seen package deals for about $800)?

[Hop]

It is really hard to get a "wave" with a single vortec on a larger tank. But I run one on my 180 and it does a good job with keeping a random flow inside the tank. I love it and I've had zero problems aside from the battery back up only working for 16 hours when it should last 40 ish. But if you are thinking you will have a wave action such as the tunze wave or surge device, you will be very dissapointed.

[NorthStarReefer]

Originally Posted by Hop

But if you are thinking you will have a wave action such as the tunze wave or surge device, you will be very dissapointed.

Perfect- i'm really only looking for random flow with good tank coverage and actually was worried i'd have trouble with overflow/spillage on the higher settings. Guess i've viewed one too many of those "Vortech wave harmonics" videos on YouTube?!
I'll go with 1 running opposing my existing koralia 4 on the other end and can always add a second later if the flow in this 48" 90 gallon isn't enough. Thanks for the input!

[crvz]

That should be a good start, good luck!