new tank setup

[teresad134]

I have been reading quite a bit and wonder if anyone can tell me if this sounds like it will work. I want a fowlr tank. I have a 55 gallon tank. I am planning on live sand and rock and purchasing a protein skimmer. I currently have a magnum canister filter and a penguin hob filter. Could I use one of these with carbon only and add a few powerheads. Does this sound like I could get started? Would like input on this before I purchase anything.

[leebca]

You've got a partial equipment list going for you. A more complete set of things to get is mentioned here:
Setting Up a FOWLR Aquarium

I'd suggest not buying live sand. Bacteria are free. You're really not taking any short cuts starting with live sand, because the tank still has to mature before it is ready for fish. See this: The Mature Aquarium

Add up the flow to make sure you are between 8 to 10 turnovers/hour. If you put in enough live rock and get the other things you need, you should be okay. Enough live rock? Read this too: What is Live Rock, Anyway?

Good luck!