Which Nano Reef aquarium setup? (biocube, Red Sea MAX, Nano Cube, etc.)

[Itherrien]

Hello,
First of all I am a new comer to saltwater aquariums, although I have kept freshwater for around 3 years now. I want to start a little smaller and less expensive so I am going to be purchasing a nano reef. I am stuck between these options:

Red Sea MAX 34 Gallon
(Seems a little expensive IMO)

Oceanic 29g BioCube HQI Aquarium System
Nano Aquarium Systems & Aquarium Kit: Oceanic 29 gallon BioCube HQI Aquarium System

(looks nice, but the filter doesn't seem to be as powerful as the nano cubes)

Nano Cube, CF-QUAD (what is the difference between this one and the regular nano cubes?)
]Nano Cube Reef Aquarium Kits: JBJ Lighting Nano Cube 28-gallon CF-QUAD\

28 Gallon Nano Cube LED Intermediate Series

Nano Aquarium Systems & Aquarium Kit: JBJ 28 Gallon Nano Cube LED Intermediate Series Aquarium(looks nice)

In your opinion which is best, what are your reasons? In other words which one do you suggest for a beginner saltwater aquarist?

Please state your reasons! Thank you :)

[smaug]

I suggest none of the above. Plug and plays seem atractive for sure but down the roadwhen there usually sub par systems start too fail you are stuck with having to use the same sub par parts for replacement. I suggest research into buying the equipment piece by piece and get what you want the first time around.

[sailor]

I have heard many good things about the Red Sea Max set ups,
I had an Oceanic Biocube and it was crap. The ballasts for the lighting systems went kapoot in less than 6 months. What was even worse was that the customer support from them was non existent.

[Surfdog]

I have a Bido 24 Cube and am having fantastic results and I am very happy with it. All the parts easily replacable, 3 large compartments in back of the tank. I got mine with stand for $199.00...With weekly water changes, I do not believe you need a protien skimmer for a unit as small as 24 gallons... Mine is thiving with a Manderin Goby and cleaner shrimp...

reefup2.jpg

Terrible picture but gives you the idea. I got mine from Big Al's...