im just getting confused searching through the old posts. what i have now is a hang on prizm, and it sucks. if i do not have a sump, to put a better skimmer in can i just plumb one to and from the tank? what do you guys recommend?
You can't use a skimmer without a sump, unless you're willing to sit the skimmer on top of your tank. No skimmer is 100% sealed (can't be by design) so if you run a skimmer in-line below your tank, you're gonna have very wet floors.
I recommend you get a better hang-on, such as Aquamedic Turboflotor Multi, Precision Marine HOIT-1, or AquaC Remora Pro. Any of those will outperform your current Prizm.
I'm using the Remora Pro on my 55 and it is a good skimmer-and easy to setup and adjust, too. I would recommend you go with the Mag pump upgrade, however. I hear they are much quieter and more powerful than the Rio that comes with it. I have the Rio and am worried it will do its infamous meltdown one of these days. :?