Does anyone have experience with this canister filter?

[Praetorian27]

Aquarium Canister Filters: Hagen Fluval Multi-Stage 05 Series Filters

I am considering purchasing my first canister filter. I am having problems with my current charcoal filter foam sponge HOB setup and was thinking about changing. I have no experience with canister filters though. Does this one seem good? I have a 30 gallon tank. Would you recommend the "up to 40 gallon" or "up to 70 gallon"? Is it possible to have too big a filter for your tank?

Also, are they quieter than HOB filters? Mine is VERY loud!

 

[TMony]

You can't have too much filtration, but the 205 should work fine with your tank.
It will cycle your tank water 6 times an hour, which is more than sufficient.
I haven't personally used the Fluval filters, but all four of my canister filters run almost silent. Once my cabinet doors are closed, I don't hear a thing.

 

[Praetorian27]

You can't have too much filtration, but the 205 should work fine with your tank.
It will cycle your tank water 6 times an hour, which is more than sufficient.
I haven't personally used the Fluval filters, but all four of my canister filters run almost silent. Once my cabinet doors are closed, I don't hear a thing.

What do you recommend for filter media for a 30 gallon non planted (but considering starting real plants soon) with a freshwater community? I see the Fluval states 2 carbon, 2 BioMAX and a foam sponge. Don't most people say to get rid of carbon? If so, what do you replace it with?

 

[TMony]

I personally like to use carbon. I have it in all my canister filters. I only take it out temporarily when I polish the water in my tanks or am using meds. Besides reducing organic pollutants, some of which discolor the water, organic acids, proteins, hormones, antibiotic compounds, and organic compounds as well as a variety of chemicals, medications, metals, and minerals, I like the fact that it eliminates the "fish" smell in my tanks. As for using it with a planted tank, I will let someone else answer that point, as I do not currently have any live plants. Hoping to take on that challenge in the near future. Good luck*thumbsups