As for the 1000$ better spend on a euroreef I tink you are absolutly right If I have 1000$-1500$ to spend on a skimmer this is the one I buy
Model CS12-1 Skimmer w/2x SEDRA
I heard Jeff exotic copy the euroreef for cheaper to.
The Hagen pump that you have is a very good pump
Those are some of the best pumps on the market the drawback is they are expensive. But if you
have one why dont you try I tink a CC drive by a
pumps like these will perform as well as a becket
But on the other hand a becket for less than 600$ is very good if he is well design they are good an need less maintenance + :D They are great toy to play!
I just love mine :D
I tink you probably have seen this one already but just in case
http://www.thereefweb.com/skimmer_comparison.htm
Jason why dont you send pic of the skimmer I would love to see the puppy :D Dont worry I will not copy it only currious