Eclipse System 3 vs. Hex 5 + heater question

[Gbcue]

I was wondering if I should get the system 3 or the hex 5. What do you guys recommend? I don't really like the bow-front on the system 3, but it is so much cheaper.

Also, what heater should I get of I purchase the System 3 or hex 5? The walmart Junior heater?

If I get the system 3, it'll be for a betta. The hex, a betta, and maybe an ADF.

I'll probably replace the bulb in the hex with a CF, and I cannot get a system 6 because it's too big.

TIA!

 

[Lotus]

I bought my 5g hex at Walmart under the Regent brand, although it's made by Marineland for $30. I find it works well for my betta and ADF, and I have a Junior heater in there, which keeps it around 78-80F. I have put a 10w Walmart CF in there, and it is fine for growing low-light plants, and the color is a lot better than the incandescent. That's just my experience, I have been pretty happy with the hex.

 

[Gbcue]

I don't plan on having any real plants, just the plastic stuff, but I still want my fish to look nice under the light. Nice suggestion on the lightbulb. Is it just a generic walmart CF bulb?

 

[Gbcue]

Originally posted by Gbcue
I don't plan on having any real plants, just the plastic stuff, but I still want my fish to look nice under the light. Nice suggestion on the lightbulb. Is it just a generic walmart CF bulb?

Does it have that dripping problem I've heard about the system 3?

 

[Lotus]

I haven't noticed a dripping problem.

The bulb is from the walmart fish section. It's a 10w bulb, for just under $5. I like the light it gives the tank, and it's very good for bringing out blue/green colors.

 

[Gbcue]

I went to walmart today in hopes of snagging a Regent Hex 5. All I saw were a bunch of http://www.hawkeyeaquarium.com hex aquariums, 2 gallon ones, and Aqua-Culture (walmart) stuff. No Regent Hex aquariums.

Yet they had a bunch of Regent filters and bio-wheels, etc...

Ugg, I guess time to check the OTHER walmart...

EDIT: Other one doesn't have it either...
Anybody know of a place where I can get the HEX 5 for the same price??

 

[FroggyFox]

Sorry...not sure what its called...but I got a 5G hex from Walmart that I love. Came with a little hob whisper filter. I got a jr. heater from walmart and it died. If you get one, make sure and follow the instructions explicitly as far as turning it off before doing water changes etc. I think thats how I ruined it.

 

[Gbcue]

I think that's the hawkeye.

 

[Lotus]

Petsmart had them a while back on special offer for $35, but I think they went up to $45 recently (around here, anyway). I know Walmart doesn't always have the hexes when we go.

Yes, you have to unplug those silly Jr. heaters every time you do a water change or they have a "mechanism" that makes them stop working. I know it's only a matter of time before I fry mine

 

[Gbcue]

Do you guys' walmart's currently have the Regent Hex 5? Both of mine have HA's.