The friendliest place on the web for anyone with an interest in aquariums or fish keeping!
If you have answers, please help by responding to the unanswered posts.
I would personally go with the protein skimmer. I have a 30 gallon w/protein skimmer, but no refugium. I think it is more your monies worth. (Just my opinion)
I would go also with the refuge. More water volume is a good thing. I always suggest that on a 30 gallon or less that PWC`s will accomplish just as much as a skimmer. Thus why I voted for the refuge.