We always have, and always will, put together "custom" setups - with exactly the tank and equipment the customer wants. But after a few years in business, it became clear to us that many hobbyists, especially newer ones, didn't know where to start when it came to choosing from the vast array of tanks, filters, heaters, and so on that are needed for a complete setup. As we went through the various options item by item, one question seemed to pop up again and again:

"What would you buy?"

And that's the idea behind our "PRO" Setups - we've put together packages that we ourselves might take home. The equipment included isn't cheap, high-markup junk, nor is it the latest overpriced high-tech rage, but it's all dependable, well-built, and low maintainence - designed to keep an aquarium clean and healthy with a minimum of work. And unlike some of the pre-packaged setups available, we're able to choose the best products from a number of different manufacturers.

As time went on, we've found several benefits in offering standardized setups, not the least of which is that it allows customers to realistically compare prices on complete setups of various sizes and shapes. In addition, the "PRO" Setups are a good starting point for more custom packages: we can make additions or substitutions to personalize each package to meet the needs and desires of the customer. Finally, selling good quality equipment to beginners has ...