Filtration for New Tank

[uspoeric]

I purchased a 36 gallon bow tank to start a SW aquarium. The salesman tried to talk me into purchasing sump filtration and a skimmer for about $400. However, the marine biologist at www.thatpetplace.com advised that I should get the following:

1. CPR bak Pak bio filter/protein skimmer and
2. Maxijet 1200 powerhead

Which is better, a sump filtration system or the above hang on system? Also, does this cover all the filtration I will need? I intend on starting with fish and a little bit of live rock. Also, what type of substrate do you recommend? I read the above thread and it sounds like charcoal filtration is not necessary for a SW tank. I was also told that I could make the powerhead a mechanical filter by adding a prefilter to the intake tube.

Any help you could offer would be appreciated

 

[mogurnda]

I like sumps, because they give you a lot more flexibility. You can have a refugium in there, and the range of in-sump skimmers is much broader. They add a level of complexity, though, and store-bought sumps are expensive. It's much, much cheaper to build your own. If you want a sump, it will be a lot easier in the long run if you get the tank drilled.

On the other hand, the bakpak is a good skimmer (the AquaC Remora gets better reviews, so you might consider it), and it will work for your tank. I would add at least 2 powerheads, or a closed loop, for circulation. Many, myself included, use no mechanical filtration.

Carbon can be just as useful in SW as FW, but is not necessary in either.