Are sumps noisey

Hello, I am almost ready to start putting my tank together, I have the lights, pumps, rodi, diy stand and a empty tank for a sump. Before I buy the pvc for the overflow I was wondering how noisey are sumps? It will be in our living area. The overflow will be one of those diy pvc ones since I am unable to drill my tank. And another question can I keep a healthy reef tank without a sump?
Thanks

 

I think they can be pretty quiet. The noisiest part of my tank (also in my living room) is the skimmer sucking air. I use a durso standpipe in my overflow to keep that quiet.

 

no my tank is in my living-room, i have a sump and all i mainly hear is the trickle of water. at night when i cant sleep i go into th living room and the soft sound seems to put me to sleep

line the inside of your tanks cabinet with rubber backed mats ...( the ones you use at your front door outside) that you get from home depot or lowes. also put them under the sump. it all absorbs sound. and you will be thankful you did this

 

Mine was annoying at first, but search here & google how to set up a "derso" style drain pipe in the overflow it will cut down on the noise. I also took a folded towel and put it on the top on the overflow to help as a layer of noise insolation as well.

A sump is definitely the way to go. Plus once you get bitten my the reefer bug you'll be wanting a skimmer, and all the goodies. it affords you much more room and flexability on equipment.