welcome to the salty board
like some others said...drilled tank with overflow box is best as it will make live easier.
There is a lot of information on DIY(do it yourself) but some things nowadays its cheaper to spend the extra buck and buy brand name equipment.
I like the look of sand as I recommend the course type as its easier and cleaner look in the system for not having it blown everywhere.
Decide on the type or look of your aqua-scape around what your planning for inhabitants of your reef.
As some will tell you go all live rock or all dry rock,I recommend mostly dry rock with some safe live rock from a fellow reefer for seeding the dry...There are few types of rock to chose from and aqua-scape.
I always believed for a loaded sump with rocks for all types of critters for a healthier reef,...as you will see from my next build thread(coming soon)
For a system your size you will have a larger selection of all types of fish no
impulse buy and be very and I mean very careful on how you treat and add the fish to your system ...
Corals is the last thing you need to add as your system matures and make your additions slowly...I have run into lots of people wanting system setup and ready in a matter of days believe me its only shrinking your pocket change well its more your bank savings
Ask lots of questions as there are lots of folks here with tons of information and knowledge on reefing..........Almost forgot never stop to enjoy every bit of this vast and informative hobby
Oh welcome from all of us
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