Review on Fluval SPEC Freshwater Aquarium Kit - LED Lighting & Advanced 3-Stage Filtration for Optimal Aquatic Environment by Dawn Robinson

Was hoping this could be an all in one solution for my Betta but it are some design flaws that really need to be corrected. demanded that it be a good product. First, it's a super cheap base. Instead of wrapping and protecting the glass as a finish, it sticks out an inch around the ground like a fence. It's really unstable, difficult to handle/transport and poorly constructed. Second is the actual filtration system where the media holder/sponge is too thick for good flow. You can see standing water at the top of the compartment. Then the pump must be lowered into a narrow compartment and fixed with suction cups (which are not fixed). Which also brings me to the engine. Despite its strength, it is not powerful enough to generate a current from such a thick medium. In fact, it's quite loud for such a small size, it sounds like a mini coffee grinder. This set also does not come with a pad or heater. The only good thing is that it's actually glass, not cheap plastic, and the LED lighting isn't really bad. It has two modes and is a touch button, minimalist look and protected LEDs. I sincerely think that for the $50-60 this kit is worth you could buy your own individual parts and make a much better environment for your betta etc. My kit includes: 1. Deep Blue 2.5G ($20 or less at LFS) 2. Miniature Internal Aquarium Filter KollerCraft TOM ($15)3. Hydor 25W Glass Aquarium Immersion Heater ($15) 4. Universal LED Clamp ($10) 5. Fluval Polished Ivory Aquarium Gravel, 4.4 lbs ($12). Even if it costs more, my Betta will be much happier and the small difference in price will be easily offset by the years he/she will spend in it.