Dennerle Nano Cube

[508]

Hi all,
 
Looking at two potential tanks I may or may not want to purchase. Both small nano cubes, but I'm unsure if there is a difference.
 
This is one is by Dennerle. I'm not that familiar with their tanks but heard they are of decent quality.
 
http/www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Dennerle-NanoCube-60-l-/131500998652?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_77&hash=item1e9e11fffc
 
This second one is Friscer? Have never heard of them. 
 
http/www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Friscer-Nano-Aquarium-65-l-Alternative-zu-Dennerle-Nano-Cube-/141654390127?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_77&var=&hash=item20fb42756f
 
Anyway they are as simple as they can get but should I go for Dennerle as it's a more known company or would there be no need?
 
Also what filter would you guys recommend? Need something quiet, that is my priority as it'll be in my bedroom.

 

[508]

I bought the second, cheaper tank. Could anyone recommend some lights to make it a medium tech set up? Will be using plant specialized substrate, ferts and liquid carbon. 
 
Cheers y'all.

 

[Byron]

I came across this thread, reminding me of your PM, and realized I had forgot to mention a couple things aside from the lighting.  I'll post here so others can enter the discussion.
 
On the substrate, I have not had much benefit from those I've tried, but I cannot say that all of them are the same.  But keep in mind the fish you intend, as these can be an issue for substrate fish or those that feed from the substrate.
 
I also wanted to caution on the "liquid carbon" stuff.  I have never found this necessary, as there will be a decent amount of CO2 occurring from the breakdown of organics in the substrate.  But more importantly, some of these are not really safe.  Excel and the API products both contain glutaraldehyde which is a highly toxic disinfectant.  Some plants will melt when this is used even at suggested dose levels, and it has the strength to kill fish and bacteria if overdosed.  I personally would not risk such chemicals in an aquarium.
 
Byron.