[DW62]

Thanks, Bubba. I spend alot of time on the net, reading on one forum or the other, but seldom post. I can usually find the answers by reading other people's problems!gummi - IMHO, sand is much better than aroganite. Arognite is much bigger than sand, and tends to trap detritus, food, fish crap, etc., within it. whereas the sand is not as course and keeps that stuff from settling in between the grains.Of course, then the debate is sand versus no substrate.....who's to say?

[smidoid]

I feel the opposite. Aragonite does trap stuff, yes, but it's easier to clean with a vaccuum and it looks better too. Aragonite seems to be a better base for bacteria too since the water can penetrate deeper: and then there's the buffering affect. Given the pros and cons, I suspect it's down to what you like visually that makes the difference.

[sopranogirl]

I would suggest to customize the tank by hand picking your own equip, and just about everything. I did that way myself. Package deals typically contain cheap faulty equip like heaters with no settings and such. Look online for shops to see what you like.