no no...we are here for the confusing bit...to keep costs down, look for second hand parts on ebay or in the classified sections here on Aquaria Central and build up the equipment over a few months...Am not going to deny that marine fish keeping does cost more than freshwater, but, it can be done cheaper than going out and buying brand new equipment and things from local fish shops...They do predominantly charge, in my opinion, far more than they should. I started off my first tank with nearly all second hand bits, live rock from looking through classifieds etc and it saved me a lots of money..
I dont want you to get di-heartened by it all...The more people that we can get into sustaining marine life out of the ocean the better. But, i dont want the wool to be pulled over people's eyes thinking that it is not going to cost much to get a setup...
What ever inhabitants you get, should not die as long as they are catered for...
Niko