My CSS experience (65 gallon)

[Saltysteve]

I understand where you are coming from now Hound
With a bare bottom system protein skimming is key. With all the flow the tank requires the water column remains loaded with detritus etc. Pulling dry skimmate I am told is not recommended, best to have wet for this application. I could go much dryer I could go much wetter
I would keep your present skimmer if it is pulling well!

What the CSS has to offer is consistency and a good look