Skimmer vs. Sump

[dvs]

Silly me...
Whats the difference?
I was going to get 2 Emperor 400 filters & a skimmer but was told I should/might want to get a sump instead.
Cost Differences?
Managability? Im a beginner here...
Thanks

 

[oceanjumper]

Jen,
See my website for pictures of a 72 bow front with sump and skimmer.
Depending on what you want to do, a sump can be a filter, a refugium, both, or just a container for additional water.
I have my skimmer as my main tool to clean the water from organic materials (o.a. proteins). I have my sump as a mean to hide the heater and skimmer and to provide more water. I also have a refugium with macroalgae to reduce the amount of nitrates.
Marc

 

[dvs]

I like it!, even though I dont fully understand all of it.
Your tank is exactly like mine so thats helps too.
Id like to see what other 72 gal owners have for their set up.
Anyways, thanks a lot.