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This whole filter thing is driving me crazy. I have this really haggard hanger filter in my tank now and the water isn't doing so well. I'm upgrading Prometheus into a 50 gallon tank and I was wondering what would be the best filter situation. I was thinking about buying this:

http://www.petsmart.com/global/product_detail.jsp?PRODUCT%3C%3Eprd_id=845524441782184&FOLDER%3C%3Efolder_id=2534374302030549&ASSORTMENT%3C%3East_id=2534374302023693&bmUID=1126383728100

Is this the best way to go for my filter needs throughout Prometheus' life? Do I still need those biological ring things? I live in a dorm room and it's ideal that I have as little mess as possible with as little noise as possible. Thanks everybody, maybe someday I'll know what I'm doing.

If you are willing to spend that much then go with a Rena Filstar XP3 filter. It makes no noise, it's easy to clean and will keep your tank very clean and clear with the right media. You could probably get away with an XP2 for a smaller price but if you go with the XP3 you will never have to upgrade again when you get a bigger tank down the road when the turtle outgrows that 50 gallon tank.

http://www.petsmart.com/global/product_ ... 2796506433

Ditto.
The problem with the filter you were looking at is it only filters mechanically (mesh screen). Most canister filters these days like the Rena or Eheim filters filter the water mechanically,biologically, and chemically. You need this if you want to break down Ammonia and nitrates etc...

I third the Filstar XP3. You'll be able to use it when you upgrade to an even bigger tank.

I recommend Fluval 404 over the XP filters.

Do you work for Hagen cuz thats the only time ive ever heard that. Everyone on this forum will disagree with you including me. The engineering that went into the fluval is borderline laughable. The seal is such a pain in the [---], the things break down with regularity and ordering parts is real fun etc...

My fluval worked well for the first year, but it was increasingly frustrating to work with. That said, the priming and aqua-stop features top the XP3, IMHO. There are pros and cons with both products.