sump/skimmer

[Bifferwine]

If you don't have a sump/fuge, your best bet is to get a protein skimmer. When you say cylinder filter, I assume you're talking about canister filters. Canister filters and HOB filters tend to lead to high nitrates, which is a problem in reef tanks. Not so much of a problem in fish only tanks, because fish can tolerate high nitrate levels, whereas high nitrates are fatal to inverts and corals.

[PufferGuy]

i was planning on getting a protein skimmer and a few powerheads, like 2 maybe? for a 30 gal... do i not need any kind of other filter at all then? I thought i would need those and also a canister filter (thats what i meant before by the way), cause otherwise what is going to filter my water?

[cthegame]

I used to think the same thing, that some other kind of filtration would make sense, but they could lead to higher nitrates like mentioned before. All you really need is good amount of live rock, a protein skimmer and weekly or bi-weekly water changes.

[reeffreak]

I hate repeating what I people already mention but here goes..........

You can have a successful reef without a sump.A protein skimmer,live rock(1 lb. per gallon or more) and circulation pumps is all you'll need.I do recommend you get a phosphate reactor for when you may need to run carbon,phosphate and other media.