Please check my equipment list and reccomend alternatives

I have only really used my nitrite test when I was cycling my tank after the initial set up.
Once the ammonia>nitrite>nitrate cycle finished off, I have only used them a few times after the water parameters stabilized.
Get the API (Aquarium Pharmaceuticals, Inc) test kits I told you about above. They're accurate and easy to use. I couldn't find an API test kit for Magnesium though... so I got the Red Sea brand.
You're main water testing after set-up and cycling will be Nitrates, Alkalinity, Calcium, Magnesium, and pH. I buy the test kits locally (Petsmart, Petco...) if they are the same price as on the web to save on shipping. If you get a good deal with free shipping and no tax online, then go for it.
You'll want to test your supply water for phosphates. Get the RO/DI especially if you have well water.
Russ will probably reccommend the setup like this one: BFS-161 Premium Series 75 gpd RO/DI System - $169.00 http://www.buckeyefieldsupply.com/showproducts.asp?Category=168&Sub=166
For a 55 gallon, you probably don't need to make water that fast, and the 75gpd is the same price as the 50 gpd.

I have no first-hand experience with the Aqua C skimmer, but have heard good things. My advice is to search through the Skimmer Threads for more info: Protein Skimmers - 3reef Forums

 

I agree with the API test kits, i have the saltwater and reef master test kits, also a Mg kit from salifert

 

I believe the remora skimmer is a tried a and true brand, not just a current fad. Many people here recommend them, as I said I have the hob and really like it. Extremely easy to use, just plug and it works. That's it.

 

plus one on the www.buckeyefieldsupply.com ro units i got a ro/di unit from them and i will say its the best one i have ever used and it was dirt cheap and do not skimp on a skimmer i have a current sunpod on my tank and i love it don't even think about a fixture like the coralife one i got thinking it was going to be great being as it was made for reef tanks i just manged to kill alot of nice corals slowly

 

My 2 cents... ditch the Ex100 powerhead. I don't think it'll be powerful enough for any kind of flow, even a trickle- especially after a few months of use; the small Hydors are great. The 250 for stirring RO is fine if you want to save a buck.

Re: lighting, the metal halides may be more expensive, but they sure seem to make a difference. Plus, you never have to wonder (and they look better)

 

This is exactly the type of feedback I'm looking for I'll look into the Hydors.

I don't have a visual concept of how much flow 100 GPD or 50 GPH is. I understand the rating, but I just don't have a point of reference.

About how much equates to a slow flow or trickle? constant stream from 1/4" tube?

How many GPH for sump return?

My concern with the MH is that it might be difficult to work with as far as hiding it, maintaining a slim profile for a standalone tank.. Would I need actinic also? Might be too much bulk, especially considering all the benefits of T5 (energy consumption, thermal concerns, space savings, compatibility)

When you say I'd never have to wonder, what do you mean?

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In freshwater world, there are some preferred sites for shopping online, like BigAlsOnline, DrsFosterSmith.. What are some of the competitive Marine sites?

Thanks a zillion