[Iwagumist]

The Penguin Bio-wheel 200 that is starting to die...It is low quality and cheap. What is a good (and preferably below $50 dollar) filter for a 30 gallon heavily planted tank? I am sort of a filter noob, so if a good filter can't be bought below this price, just let me know :grin2:. I am interested in trying a canister filter for the first time, but they are so much more expensive. what are the pros and cons for a canister filter?

 

[thedood]

I can tell you what I would do if that was my tank. Aquaclear 50 Power Filter
Put a sponge pre-filter on it and your in business.

 

[steveo]

An Aquaclear 50.

 

[Iwagumist]

What are the pros with the Aquaclear 50 Power Filter? I was also considering this: Amazon.com : Fluval C4 Power Filter : Aquarium Filters : Pet Supplies

Bump: The Aquaclear 50 Power Filter isn't very aesthetically pleasing in my opinion. That is one of the draw-backs for me.

 

[thedood]

Read this review.

http://www.amazon.com/review/R3H3J4HPQHLG9N/ref=cm_cr_dp_title?ie=UTF8&ASIN=B003SJXTIU&channel=detail-glance&nodeID=2619533011&store=pet-supplies

The fluva is also made by hagen. The fluval is twice as much as the AC.

 

[Leeatl]

I use the C3 and 4 . They work well and have options for media choices . I just run the included sponge , Matrix , and crushed coral in some . I do have sponge prefilters on them all and that keeps the internal media cleaner longer . The AC's are very recommended also , but I have never used one .