Emperor 400

[PhoenixFirewall]

I have just purchased a 55 gallon setup and I am currently in the process of cycling the tank with my new Emperor 400. The only issue I have with this filter is the fact that I find it to be pretty noisy. I'll admit this is the first tank I've ever put together that is more than 29 gallons, and I've always used Whisper brand filters, but decided to go with this one just because of the sheer size of the tank and the GPH it puts out. I want to ask the comunity their thoughts on the bio wheel versus bio foam. I have no problem with getting a different filter but before I jump to conclusions, I just want to get a few opinions on what your experiences have been.

[William]

I am not familiar with the emperor 400 but I can say that there are considerable difference in the noice level between different filters.A filter in a large aquarium shouldn't need to sound much higher than the one in a small tank. (can be a little higher)

[PhoenixFirewall]

Thanks for the reply William. After playing around with the spray bar that basically turns the bio wheel, I can reduce the noise level a little bit, as the amount of watter bouncing around creates a sligtly more powerful "waterfall" effect. I currently have the wheel rotating on each side as fast as possible while my tank is cycling. I dont think the noise will be much of an issue as I can just adjust the speed of the wheel when I'm in the room, but it should slow down with time.

I'm still curious as to the biological filtration difference between a filter with foam (which is what I use in my other tanks) and a bio wheel.

[Lady Hobbs]

I had planned on getting an Emperor 400 myself so am interested in your results with this filter. Is it still loud? I heard they quiet down in a short time but wanted to know. If not, I will get another Penquiun bio-wheel which is very quiet.

[turbomkt]

If you're working with a larger tank and noise is a concern, HOB filters like the Emperor/Penguin/Whisper/Aquaclear variety will not fit the bill. There will always be some noise. You can mitigate this by keeping the water level high as the water will have a shorter or no distance to fall.

In reality, I'd recommend going with a cannister filter instead. It will have significantly more bio-media, generally higher and more thorough circulation, and can be quite quiet. I've got Eheim Pro II series filters for my 50g and 55g that are absolutely silent. If you don't have the money for them, consider the Classic line from Eheim or Rena Filstar XP's. Based on my experience I say to avoid Fluval.

[Lady Hobbs]

This filter you recommend has some very good reviews. More good information! Is there no end? :)

[turbomkt]

Carol,
my life is gathering information. I also refuse to buy something because it is the cheapest thing out there. If it's expensive, but lasts 10x longer than anything else, it's a great choice.

Case in point...I bought a used BMW motorcycle with 28,000 miles on it for $10k. The equivalent bike from Kawasaki was $8k new. I fully expect my motorcycle to last 400,000-500,000 miles before I get tired of it and have to sell it. The Kawasaki could only hope to get half that.

[Lady Hobbs]

My son said the same thing and now has a BMW.

[turbomkt]

My son said the same thing and now has a BMW.

:)

I'm only about 40,000 miles in so far...