Need Some Canister Filter and Skimmer Advice

[Fish Lawyer]

Hey All

I am about to set up my first salt water tank, and I need some advice. Since my tank will be in my office, it is VERY important that my equipment be quiet. (I practice a lot of family law and need a soothing centerpiece, but it can't be noisy.)

I was thinking of a Fluval 405 Canister Filter, as it could easily fit in my aquarium stand and that would keep things nice and neat. Does anyone have any experience with these? Will it be quiet yet still effective?

Also, I want to start out right with a decent protein skimmer. However, given I just spent $900 on a tank, $600 on live rock and $300 on coral, and still have to spend about $250-300 on my filter, not to mention substrate, heaters, power heads, etc., this process is getting a little pricey. Therefore, I would like to get a good protein skimmer for the best price possible. Although, I really do need clean water, so if I have to pay higher, then it will be worth it.


So, anyone have any experience with the noise from the Fluval 405 Canister or know of a good QUIET protein skimmer?

PS: I have a 125 Gallon Tank that is roughly 4 - 5 Feet long.

[Samper]

Do you have a sump system in the cabinet? The skimmer is essential so that's what we should focus on. The canister filter is not necessary. Ebo Jager heaters are nicely priced and reliable. Also do you have an RO/DI water filter? You will need one of these.

Lighting for corals is very important but I didn't see it mentioned. What are you using?