Ok Now I need a Protein Skimmer What kind?

[edmlfc1]

I have done some research because I have never used a protein skimmer before. I decided I need to get a HOB or in tank skimmer. I have a 120 Gallon tank that is 6 feet long. I do not have a sump and the tank is not drilled. I don't want to spend a fortune on a protein skimmer basically because I really don't know why I need one, yet I am being told over and over that I do.
Can anyone please tell me what is a good HOB or in tank skimmer for a beginner. I had a saltwater tank about 22 years ago and I don't remember anything about protein skimmers. If my memory serves me right that was back when sumps just started coming out or that was the first time I ever seen one.

I have looked at a SeaClone Protein Skimmer (up to 100 gallons), not too expensive and pretty good reviews. Would this work on a 120 gallon 6 foot long tank with 2 Green spotted puffers? And should I put it in the middle of the tank or in the corner? Plan to order one by Friday any help would be appericated.
Thanks

One more question do I need to test for anything other than Ammonia, Nitrite, Nitrate and PH now that my tank is close to being a saltwater tank?

[CtHM]

I'm told Seaclones are pretty good HOB. I have one in our not-yet-set-up tank, and it's in a sump, but it's built to be a HOB or for a sump.

[edmlfc1]

Do you use yours for a saltwater tank or brackish tank. I read a review about another skimmer and it said the salt will clog it and stop if from working. I assumed that one would not be good for a saltwater tank. It was not a SeaClone Protein Skimmer, I don't remember what brand it was.

[CtHM]

Well our seaclone came with a tank from a previous owner who had the tank running for 6 months or so. And yeah, SW tank.

[edmlfc1]

Does any use or have used the AquaC Remora Pro w/ Mag 3 Protein Skimmer Aqua C. If you have this or have had it in the past would it be a better choice. I really only want to buy a protein skimmer once. Thanks

[CtHM]

Can't really help you much more. Never actually had a SW tank before, and our current one doesn't even have water in it yet. =/

[Pufferpunk]

Sea"clowns" are junk. Go with a Coralife Super Skimmer 220.

[edmlfc1]

Thanks for the replys. Now the hunt is on to find one!

Thanks again

[Pufferpunk]

Look in the Used Equipment forum here: http://www.reefcentral.com

[edmlfc1]

Hey Pufferpunk what is the difference between:
Coralife Super Skimmer with Venturi - Up to 220 Gallon
Coralife Super Skimmer-Needle Wheel-220 Gallon
And what is a Venturi anyway?
The only difference I see is that the Needle wheel comes with a pump and the venturi don't, is that it?

[pufferfreak]

hum. thinking. ill be getting protein skimmer soon.

[Pufferpunk]

Hey Pufferpunk what is the difference between:
Coralife Super Skimmer with Venturi - Up to 220 Gallon
Coralife Super Skimmer-Needle Wheel-220 Gallon
And what is a Venturi anyway?
The only difference I see is that the Needle wheel comes with a pump and the venturi don't, is that it?

Sorry, I'm a total dummy when it comes to mechanics.