build two rock islands and have the lights directly over them and you should be fine with two - you will have a large shaded area but it should have a nice dramatic look to it. try to get the unit with 70 degree optics for better spread.
sps corals are the hardest to keep due to the quality of water they require. almost 0 nitrates and almost 0 phosphates. if you dont run a skimmer you will be instead spending the money on extra liver rock, a well stocked fuge with tons of macro algae, and salt for large WEEKLY water changes. Skimmers help reduce tank maintenece and also oxygenate the water so you will probably need extra power heads to increase gas exchange. You can get a good quality used one on this board for under $250. if you do decide to go the skimmerless route, i would wait a FULL year to ensure your bio filtration is at its peak and you are able to maintain good water parameters with whatever regiment you choose. If you find its not cutting it, add a skimmer.
as for no aggressive no pod eating fish - try some gobies but they are usually pretty small. A hawkfish might be a cool addition. Clownfish eat pods btw. Most fish will eat pods from what i have seen. A yellow tang would add a nice splash of color. Pods thrive in Uvla macro - so try to add that as well as some chaeto to your macro area. Baffle height should also make room for water that drains from teh display if the power ever goes out.
as for a return pump - eheim 1260 - quiet and built to last. There are cheaper options but you'll find this pump has proven to be a winner. You can get a used one for $100 or less. Just keep an eye out.
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