I really really recommend using a sump, I regretted using a hob filter when it was time for corals. the filtration was not as good. I just really regretted it and can't stress that enough. if you dont want corals, the HOB will be fine! a sump allows more filtration and media.
people are gonna confuse you by throwing a million things at you. here's all you need,
Heater - anything works. Make sure it fits ur aquarium size and isn’t built cheap, a busted heater sucks.
https://www.amazon.com/MarineLand-Precision-Submersible-Freshwater-Saltwater/dp/B00NETRY44/ref=sr_1_4?keywords=fish+tank+heater+70+gallon&qid=1572901819&sr=8-4&th=1
Thermometer - either works. Your preference.
- https://www.amazon.com/Marina-Floating-Thermometer-Suction-Cup/dp/B0002AQITK/ref=sr_1_11?crid=2WCE53JIA2AI3&keywords=thermometer+reef&qid=1572902210&sprefix=thermo%2Caps%2C170&sr=8-11
- https://www.amazon.com/JW-Pet-Smarttemp-Thermometer-Accessory/dp/B002ZMFM4A/ref=sr_1_25?crid=2WCE53JIA2AI3&keywords=thermometer+reef&qid=1572902210&sprefix=thermo%2Caps%2C170&sr=8-25
Light - anything works honestly. Something with blues is great. If you want corals make sure you get at least something with blue.
- https://www.amazon.com/HIPARGERO-LED-Aquarium-Light-Saltwater/dp/B0727V8C5Q/ref=sr_1_6?keywords=reef+tank+light&qid=1572901964&sr=8-6
- https://www.amazon.com/ZXMEAN-Aquarium-Adjustable-Freshwater-Saltwater/dp/B07G2X5WNJ/ref=sr_1_27?keywords=reef+tank+light&qid=1572901964&sr=8-27
TEST KIT- very important. If you want to keep sensitive corals, you’ll want to get alkalinity, magnesium and calcium kits as well.
https://www.amazon.com/API-FRESHWATER-800-Test-Freshwater-Aquarium/dp/B001EUE808/ref=sr_1_3?crid=3RWF4PJGFI6LL&keywords=test+kit&qid=1572902140&sprefix=test+kit,aps,163&sr=8-3&th=1
Live rock: ask on here, many people have tons. cheap at LFS. u can actually see what you get but if you want to order alot at once, here's a good deal.
Amazon.com : Nature's Ocean 12-Inch Coral Base Rocks for Aquarium, 40-Pound : Aquarium Decor Rocks : Pet Supplies
www.amazon.com
Sand -
Wave maker -
1.with controller-
Buy Jebao RW-8 Series Wavemaker with Controller: Pumps - Amazon.com ✓ FREE DELIVERY possible on eligible purchases
www.amazon.com
2. without controller-
Amazon.com: Hydor Koralia Nano 425 Aquarium Circulation Pump, 425 GPH: Pet Supplies
www.amazon.com
Salt mix - weekly water changes.
- For fish only, https://www.amazon.com/dp/B003SNKMVI/?tag=reefs04-20
- For fish & coral https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0002DJU0G/?tag=reefs04-20
Salinity
refractometer- keep salinity at 1.025
Best Price RHS-10ATC Salinity Refractometer 0-10%(0-100ppt) Seawater Brine Refractometer: Amazon.com: Industrial & Scientific
www.amazon.com
all you need now is to learn about the nitrogen cycle and you're good.
MOST IMPORTANTLY ***********make sure you only use RODI or distilled water when you mix salt, if you want an RODI unit, go for it. You can buy rodi water at pretty much any local fish store. just make sure u have buckets. if you dont use rodi, you have to use dechlorinator but it honestly makes a huge difference when you use rodi. marine life is way more sensitive than fresh water life.
when you want to add more corals, message me or someone else and they'll let you know if you need any new equipment.
**********watch BRS 52 weeks of reefing on youtube. that will tell you everything you need to know so you dont get confused. They basically set up a fish tank over 52 weeks and show you the process and I promise that's all you'll need.