I think to have a Successful Reef you should follow a few basics with out exception. The best water quality possible, RO/DI with current filters and a TDS meter measuring the output, Prime if you want to have peace of mind, a quality skimmer, Great lights.( touchy Subject ) what ever you can afford and like, MH, T-5, LED, PC, VHO,
I keep reading on here about using Tap water and I think of all the Newbies setting up tanks and I'm concerned for them and the head aches that their going to have long term, I' know the Algea frustrations. I just wish that as responsible Reefers and I mean those that have been in this hobby long term that they would excersise caution when giving bad advice. What works for you today may not work long term. If you want to take short cuts then fine but don't promote it. When you say that you're an Expearienced Saltwater enthusiast and you know you're taking short cuts then I gotta wonder if you know the meaning of Expearience. Maybe having Expearience and being successful aren't the same thing but I tend to think that it should.