I used treated tap for years until finally springing for an ro/di filter. It has made this hobby so much easier, not to mention the piece of mind I get with knowing whats in my water. I no longer have any issues with nitrates or phosphates. As for salt, I use IO reef crystals that I buy in bulk. The bucket is enough for 165 gallons at a price of $35. I was paying almost double this, but recently found a local on-line company that agreed to set aside orders for will-call pickup.
