Turbosek

If you want to run the Aqua-C with an external pump, the sump will have a hole drilled in it from the skimmer section (where the water from the display drains in). The skimmer can still be in-sump. A bulkhead and plumbing to the external pump will provide raw tank water that is then pumped into the skimmer's body. The skimmer's drain pours water out in its section, and continues to the bubble trap / return zone.

The return pump can be submersible or external. It pumps water back up to the display. Whatever return pump you use, I always recommend owning a second one in case you need to swap it out due to a failure. I wouldn't run two on my reef, I'd run the one and have the second one ready to go.

Why did you decide on the Aqua-C EV-240 using spray induction, over a skimmer with a needle wheel ?

I have no idea other than it was one of the three Melev suggested. What are yout thoughts on the pros and cons of various types....and what would you choose and why? Thanks.

Well nothing against Melev's suggestions (Marc's tank has been an inspiration since I started reefing). My preference is towards needle wheel skimmers. There're more efficient (lower wattage on the pumps that spin the needle wheel) and more quiet (usually). Look into cone needle wheel skimmers.

There's an old list I made up: (some links might be dead)
EuroReef Inc. - www.euro-reef.com
ASM skimmer - www.asmskimmer.com
Reef Octopus - http://www.octopusskimmer.com
Coralife SS - www.esuweb.com
Pacific Coast Imp. - www.pacificcoastaquarium.com
Deltec - www.deltecusa.us
Bubble King - http://english.royal-exclusiv.de/index2.htm
H&S - www.hs-aquaristik.de
Aquamedic - www.aqua-medic.de
Reef Mania - www.reefmania.net
Geosreef - www.geosreef.com
JDM Tech - http://hstrial-jdmtechnologies.homes...edlewheel.html
AquaEuro USA - http://www.aquaeurousa.com/
D.A.S. - www.PetStoreFixtures.com
AquaExcel - http://www.aquaexcel.cn/En_index.asp
GRoTech - www.grotech.de
Orca Systems - http://protein-skimmer.com/
spazz volcano skimmers - http://aquaticacrylics.com/
fauna marin ultra skim - http://www.faunamarin.de/eng/ultraskim.php

Yes, there are a lot of skimmers on the market now, and the price range is all over the place. I prefer those that are solid, dependable, and still reasonably affordable.

What were the 3 Marc recommended? I've finally got room for a sump and want to upgrade from my backpack skimmer soon too.

Phil, I'm still recommending the Euro-Reef, Aqua-C, and now SWC skimmers (to replace the ASM skimmers from years ago). There are lots of other choices as you can see above, and there are several that weren't included.

The CPR Bakpak skimmer would be better replaced with a Remora or Remora Pro, but with a sump with space, any of the other three should be good.

I forgot Warner Marine too !