really would depends on what you plan on doing with your setup. if your going to have a heavy bioload you may need to think about more aggressive filtration with a sump/fuge.
Oh! So just throw some live rock back there maybe and I'm not fimiliar with protein skimmer benefits never used one can you tell me the benefits or purpose thanks for the help!
I wouldnt put live rock in it, in theong haul it will end up clogged just like a pad would and stsrt to createna nitrate problem. A protein slimmer removes organic and inorganic waste from the water column before it can become an issue. The bigger the better. This is a very important device in saltwater systms. Its advised notnto skimp on this piece of equipment.