Live rock is a more natural environment for sea critters. It also looks a heck of a lot better than dead coral skeletons. And realistically, live rock is not $1000, you can get it for less than half that much. So buy a cannister for 200 or live rock for 450. I'd go with the live rock. Many wouldn't. It all depends on what type of tank you want. 
		
	
		
		
		
		
			
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				Brad
			 
		
		
		
		
	
		
		
	
	
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