help with setting up a new aquarium

[rmd8110]

I would appreciate all input. Saturday i bought a 125 gallon tank. I have lots of concerns and although i think i got a pretty good deal for the set up, i will not be using him anymore. I'm wanting to use some live sand but the system has bio balls so i'm concerned about that. I'm planning on getting some live rock tomorrow but thought for now since i'm new i'd just start with about 100-120 lbs. how soon should i add more? After i add the rock tomorrow, how long should i wait to add a couple of fish and some little cleaning critters. Also, anyone who would like to tell me the fav's on skimmers..that would be great. The guy i got the system from said i don't even need one. I know that's not right. i know i don't need it right now but i will need one. I'm also wondering about a carbon filtration bad, a wave maker, powerheads, all that stuff. Once again, any help would be great...Thanks a lot.

 

[aceiswild7]

as far as adding the live rock if you have a dsb get rid of the bio balls as i just learned and did and as far as a skimmer the Berlin XL is working great for me with a mag500 pump i just hooked up an air pump to the air intake and it is now taking in a lot more air so it works better. as far as carbon filtration its optional as far as long term but new rock can make you tank yellowish with dieoff and carbon will help clear your tank up while the rock is maturing so until the rock is established id use the carbon
good luck

 

[seabass]

I wouldent run the skimmer until your cycle is complete! you can cycle with raw shrimp or live rock. I like to cycle with uncurred live rock but others may not agree. when the cycle is done thats when you can start adding fish and such. you will have to get a test kit so you can see what your tank is doing and when the cycle is over.