Ok now for a real newbie.

[abrasive]

Originally Posted by Abrasive
Thanks again.
I will go with live sand then. How much is usually needed for a 55 galon aquarium?
QUOTE]
WELCOME!

check out the live rock/ live sand section of this website... there is a calculator for how much sand you will need for the desired depth...
Also, within the archives a FAQ of the forum there are some amazing 'step-by-step' methods for getting started, definitions of equipment, protein skimmers, cycling, etc.... check these out

Thanks I will look into this. What do you guys think of the Magnum 350 canister filter with a biowheel attached tank side?
Reason I ask is I think my wife bought me a used 55g setup that comes with the magnum and such.
Thanks

 

[1journeyman]

Welcome to the boards.
First off, great questions... keep them coming. Don't apologize for asking them, we were all new at this and everyone will tell you we are all still learning.
Which books did you order? Fenner's "A Conscientious Marine Aquarist" is my favorite for explaining aquarium setups. The author does a very good job of walking through the different options and the strengths/weaknesses.
In my humble opinion (imho) live rock is a must (unless you are wanting some sort of special "aggressive" setup). Live rock provides good habitat, natural food source, water buffering, and great biological filtration.
Several of us do tanks without filters. We use good protein skimmers, brisk water flow, and lot's of live rock. That, in addition to not overstocking your tank and employing critters to keep your tank clean can work well.
Base rock will never be as good as live rock. It will become "live" in that it will grow bacteria and algaes, but you can never get the biodiversity from base rock that you'll get from good live rock. Save up your money and go with mostly (if not all) true live rock. In fact, getting uncured live rock and curing it in your tank is a great way to start off your tank.

 

[abrasive]

Thanks for the info.