To the OP's original question.
I would go fowler.
Live rock, biggest hang on the back filter you can find.
Sump would be better and allow nothing to be in or hang off tank with more equipment options.
Couple power heads for water movement.
2 tube T5 unit.
Hob or in tank skimmer would be nice.
Couple test kits.
Ro/di unit would be better than going to lfs for water every week.
Ato would be nice.
A heater and a bag of salt with a way to check sg.
You can get most equipment used and save big if you check around.
Dollar wise you could do all for easily under $500, maybe even less.
Used equipment and live rock from someone breaking down their system could save you hundreds.
I would go fowler.
Live rock, biggest hang on the back filter you can find.
Sump would be better and allow nothing to be in or hang off tank with more equipment options.
Couple power heads for water movement.
2 tube T5 unit.
Hob or in tank skimmer would be nice.
Couple test kits.
Ro/di unit would be better than going to lfs for water every week.
Ato would be nice.
A heater and a bag of salt with a way to check sg.
You can get most equipment used and save big if you check around.
Dollar wise you could do all for easily under $500, maybe even less.
Used equipment and live rock from someone breaking down their system could save you hundreds.