Filter or no Filter

[lando]

LR, LS, aggressive skimming and powerheads for movement are really all you need. However, like MT, I like the option of mechanical filtration for "water polishing". I have a sump filled with LR rubble but I also use PURA filtration pads on occassion. Mainly after water changes or moving things around in the tank to help clear it. Some options are using a HOB filter (minus any bio-media they come with) or keeping a canister on hand for the sole purpose of occassional mechanical filtration. This type of filtration should be considered secondary as the LR and LS ARE the best things you can do for you tank.

[MT79]

FWIW madhatter I just want to be sure you are not lumping chemical media into the same category as mechanical media. GAC(carbon) and other chemical medias such as phosban, etc are excellent for long term nutrient reduction and over all water quality maintenance. They make an excellent addition to a skimmer, they compliment each other well. Many people ditch the mechanical media that comes w/ filters and just use chemical media for this purpose(as mentioned above). You want to remove as much nutrients, coral toxins, etc. as possible to prevent long term build ups.
HTH