| mike31154 |
06-01-2010 06:36 PM |
I currently have two MP40W ES. I started with a single Generation 1 MP40W on my 77 and was immediately impressed with the water movement compared to anything else I'd used to that point. Mind you, I had been using conventional AquaClear powerheads which tend to produce very concentrated flow in a narrow band. Never had the opportunity to try a Tunze propeller pump so I can't comment on those, but I believe they are comparable to the VorTechs, including pricing. Where the VorTechs have the edge is in the ability to wirelessly communicate between an unlimited number of drivers/pumps. This provides unequalled flexibility in flow patterns. The only problem I've had in the two years after upgrading to Gen 2, then ES, is an unusual noise from the dry side of the original pump. I sent an audio file of the sound to EcoTech and they suggested I send it in for them to have a look at. It was still under warranty so the issue was taken care of quickly and with no charge. For me this was a cautionary step, since warranty was almost up and I wanted to make sure there wasn't a problem. Other than the slight growling sound the pump was still working flawlessly.
Shortly after getting the original pump, there was a wet side magnet/bearing and driver firmware upgrade bringing the MP40W to Generation 2 configuration. I purchased the magnet upgrade kit for around $10 directly from EcoTech. An inexpensive and very worthwile upgrade. Had to wait for the firmware upgrade until I purchased a second MP40W through the buy/sell forum on another site. Finally, about a month or so after the new ES drivers became available, I upgraded both my pumps with the new drivers. In my case, again a very worthwile investment due to the additional modes and features of the new drivers. As mentioned, the only issue is a time creep in the Night Mode, which they really should have solved before shipping the new drivers. The old drivers (mine anyhow) had the same problem after the Gen 2 firmware update. I certainly hope the firmware fix for the new drivers is out there soon. Not a deal breaker, particularly if you choose not to use the night mode but it is a bit of a pain resetting the start time every few days due to a 15 min/day shift.
With supplemental flow, you'll be fine with a single VorTech to start with, but for your size tank, I reckon right after you install the first one, you'll be scheming & saving up for #2. A single wireless capable VorTech is a waste of $$. If you intend to use only one on a smaller system, save some $ and get a non wireless model. In a pinch it can be upgraded with a wireless driver in the future, but if the plan is to have more than one, which in your case seems the way to go, you may as well start with an MP40W ES from the get go. Costly yes, but I spread the investment by buying them a year apart and do not even remotely regret spending the money.
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