Newbie's First Post

Hi All!

I'm looking at setting up a 100 gallon reef aquarium and although I've
done a fair bit of homework, I still have lots of questions.

I'm sure this gets asked a lot, so I will search the ng archives, but if
anyone could point me to any good resources it would be greatly
appreciated.

I guess what I'd really like is a shopping list of everything I'm going
to need, including the reasoning for why one method or thing is better
than another (like using limewater vs calcium reactors vs 2 part
additives, lighting, etc., etc.)

I'd especially be interested in the recommendation and experiences of
others, as opposed to what I'm reading in magazines, especially when it
comes to opinions about various equipment.

Lastly, I still haven't got a clue about how much all of this might cost
me, so I'd be really interested in hearing what you think my budget
should be. (I already have the 100 gallon rectangular glass tank and
stand with a matching canopy/top, but nothing else).


Thanks to all who respond.