Best setup for this style sump (Photos attached)

[kropa008]

Hello,
I have been reading some negative reviews on the current trickle down carbon pad and bio ball system that I am running. I know this isn't an ideal sump setup, but it's the only one I can fit underneath my corner tank. I'm just looking to get the absolute most out of this space. So I was recommended to remove the bio balls and carbon pad and replace that space with a filter sock. Then place a ceramic block under that. Is this the best thing I could do? I don't have much room to work with. Would it be more beneficial to keep the carbon pad and fill the empty bioball space with more water and place my skimmer on a ceramic block for extra height? Lastly are there pros and cons of keeping ceramic balls vs ceramic blocks? Can you have too much media? I'm looking forward to reading your suggestions and thank you for your time!

 

[bobnicaragua]

You could use that space to set up a refugium.

 

[kropa008]

You could use that space to set up a refugium.

Could I use a refugium and a ceramic block?

 

[bobnicaragua]

As long as you have room. I keep ceramic balls in a media bag in mine.