Actually, if it were my pond then I would not go less then the PA12W. The unique thing about these compressors compared to linear compressors is that they have enough PSI to carry the full volume of air to the bottom. I totally understand about not trying to break the bank, I suppose if you are on a limited budget then the $100 pump might not be a bad idea. However think about weighted tubing another $100 and a decent diffuser $80 to $100. You have already spent $300. If the specs on the pump are good then that might not be a bad idea, however I would like to see some data on the pump. Even if it is making a lot of bubbles that doesn't tell us much especially if you are using a small diffuser. For a small diffuser to start really boiling on the surface doesn't take much volume.
