sump/overflow versus canister help???

I'm somewhat new to the saltwater arena and want some advice. Is it really MUCH better to have a sump with overflow, etc. versus just having a "professional" type canister filter. From what I can tell the obvious benefit is hiding the equipment such as heaters, U/V, skimmers, etc. with the sump option. I have a canister now in a 70g and am thinking of upgrading possibly to a 180. Thanks for any advice.
 
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