Choosing an external filter

[Dock]

I'm setting up a 55 gallon planted tank and need advice on picking an external filter. I've been looking at the Fluval 407 and the Eheim Classic 350. Which one would you recommend for a tank with moderate stocking?

[Lunasa]

The Fluval 407 is solid for a 55 gallon. It's got a good flow rate, around 383 gph, and the media baskets are easy to customize. I've used it for my discus tank and it keeps the water crystal clear. Just make sure you clean the impeller every few months.

[dreamwave]

Yo, I'd go with the Eheim Classic 350. It's quieter than the Fluval and way more reliable in the long run. Mine's been running for like 5 years with zero issues. Plus, it's got that German engineering vibe, you know?

[tunnel9]

Yo, I'd go with the Eheim Classic 350. It's quieter than the Fluval and way more reliable in the long run. Mine's been running for like 5 years with zero issues. Plus, it's got that German engineering vibe, you know?

I second the Eheim. The Fluval's fine, but the Eheim's built like a tank. Only downside is the price, but it's worth it if you're not gonna mess with it for years.

[larisa]

Honestly, both are great, but it depends on your budget and how much maintenance you wanna do. The Fluval's easier to clean, but the Eheim's more durable. If you're lazy like me, go Fluval. If you're in it for the long haul, Eheim.

[pateky]

I've got the Fluval 407 on my 75 gallon and it's been a champ. The flow's adjustable, so you can dial it down if your fish don't like strong currents. Just keep an eye on the media, it can clog up if you're heavy on the bio load.

[Dock]

Thanks for the input, everyone. Leaning toward the Eheim for the reliability, but I'll check out the Fluval's maintenance too. Appreciate the help!

[tunnel9]

No prob! Either way, you're gonna end up with a solid filter. Just don't cheap out on the media. Get some good ceramic rings and maybe a pre-filter sponge if you're running sand.

[dreamwave]

No prob! Either way, you're gonna end up with a solid filter. Just don't cheap out on the media. Get some good ceramic rings and maybe a pre-filter sponge if you're running sand.

Yeah, pre-filter sponges are a game changer. Saves you so much hassle when it's time to clean the main filter.

[Lunasa]

If you go Eheim, their substrate pro media is worth the extra cash. It's got way more surface area than the cheap stuff. Just toss it in and forget about it for a year or two.