I've started a sticky thread for reporting your results. Everyone is invited to post PAR meter tank pictures but please post make and model of your meter if it is not the club meter. The link to the thread is in the first post of this thread. Thanks.
My MP10 is not noticeable in my 29 running at ~40% and even at the higher speeds it's pretty quiet. It did take about 4 weeks for it to quiet down so there does seem to be a break in period.
You could notch those 4x4 so the rest the 2x4 inside the notch - chop saw and then a hammer and chisel. Counter sink those lags so you have a even surface to skin and it wouldn't hurt if they were stainless.
Groupon is running a deal for tickets to the Oregon Coast Aquarium - if you are planning on going between now and October it's $15 for 2 adults or $25 for 2 adults & 2 children. Link with the details.
Shout out to Ed's Reef for the Helfrichi firefish. Great deal on a nice fish - eating and getting along with his tank mates so far. Nice job on the shop too - everyone needs to make a trip over there and check it out.
-Marc
Drained my 29 down to ~4" of water and scooped the Damsel out no problem. Dropped my mixing pump in and had the water pumped back in 5 minutes. I was amazed at how easy the whole process was but then again I'd been trying to net the little &@!# for about 2 weeks.
Nothing less than an MP60. Kidding but post it to YouTube if you go that direction.
The Korallia Nano units are cheap, have a good reputation and can be found locally.
Frank-
I also work in Tigard Mon-Friday - about 5 min from your place - maybe we could split/alternate days. I could probably manage a weekend day also. Also not an expert reef keeper but I can walk and chew bubblegum at the same time. PM if needed.