Filter Recommendation

[eduller]

So who has a filter they LOVE?
 
I have a secondhand Marineland Magnum 350 on my 54 gallon tank. It's working fine I'm sure. Keeps the water sparkling. However, it is loud and it has a really violent output that freaks out the fish. I have to baffle it or they all huddle in a corner. By loud I mean that it sounds like someone is taking a shower next to my head. It's not the sound of the water output that's a prolbem - it's the water running through the tubes.
 
So can someone recommend their favorite canister filter? Ideally, I want something with an adjustable output flow and quiet operation. It doesn't have to be absolutely silent, but quieter is better because I have 2 tanks with 3 filters and 2 air pumps between them all in the same room, so anything to cut down the noise would be good. I'd like something good for at least a 100 gallon tank. Cost is secondary (getting a nice tax refund), though I'd like to keep it under $200. I would even consider a smaller capacity canister and a secondary HOB filter or a combination like that. I'm certain that at some point in the future, I'm going to set up a 20 gallon in another room, so I'll keep the Magnum around to use in that tank.
 
Thanks!

 

[techen]

I think you'll find everyone has tastes in everything. I use Eheim and love them, German made filters that outlast your fish in your tank
 
Uh, There is Fluval they are okay, All ponds that do cheap canisters that work too. The new Aqua manta range is pretty decent too, Am going to go pick up a new Aqua manta canister very soon, Love them.

 

[eduller]

Hmm. I use Eheim media in my filter, so I don't know why it didn't occur to me to take a look at their filters. Great idea!

 

[techen]

Haha, There not cheap filters but there worth the money.

 

[Rob5]

Eheim are definately quality filters

 

[Stimo]

Sorry to say but i also run Eheim filters and i can not fault them , but like others have said a little more expensive.

 

[eduller]

I'll pay more for something that will last and is of good quality. Would the 2215 be a good choice? I know it's for larger tanks than I have, but who knows if I might upgrade someday. My tank is stocked extremely lightly right now, and I'm not likely to push the stocking limit. But I want to get something flexible for the future.
 
I have also been looking at the Fluval 306/406.

 

[blueboyg]

I bought a Eheim ecco 130 last week for my new tank and im delighted with it, very quiet and great output.

 

[eduller]

Other than the possible ability to move it to a larger tank in the future, is there any practical advantage to getting a higher capacity/GPH filter over a lower one, provided both are adequate for your tank. Meaning, is bigger always better - is there a reason for me to be looking at, say a filter rated for 150 gallons over one rated for an 80 gallon for my 54 gallon tank?