It is possible to do without a sump, but then after a while you end up with all kinds of hang on back equipment. Fortunately there are a few options to use an existing tank. DIY pvc overflows, drilling, or getting the glass drilled and installing a pre-made or home built overflow box.
A sump does not have to be complicated either, In the past i have used just a bare tank with no baffles, it is just somewhere to hide all the equipment so your display can look nicer. there to it is not hard to get a few pieces of glass cut and silicone them in yourself if you feel the need to have some partitions.
Deciding factor might be what you want out of the tank in the long run fish only? corals? what kind of corals? how much time do you have for maintenance? not sure yet? sure get started in this tank the way it is, but be prepared to upgrade when you know what you like.
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