Gravel Filters (yes or no)

Question
Excellent to hear!  I apprecieate the fast response and answer. As far as scenery or structure in the tank, can you use dried coral in a freshwater tank.  I read not to use limestone which is everywhere here in Austin, TX.       
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Followup To

Question -
1.) I am setting up a 46 Gallon Hex tank and in looking for a undergravel filter, was told that they were not neccesary and that it is older technology and lots of hobbiest are getting away from them.  I took the advice and did'nt use one?  Good or Bad?  Currently I am just running a Penguin 200 Bio-wheel filter.  I just filled the tank 2 days ago and I am waiting on a Coralife Quad Light to come in so I haven't planted anything or bought any starter fish yet.  Do I need more filtration and what would you advise?  
2.)I added conditioner and bacteria and the water appears a little cloudy currently. Will this clear up or are there any tricks to clarifying?


Answer -
Undergravel filters with todays technology are for the most obsolete. The filter you have is good up to 50 Gallons, pending on your objective you should be alright I personally always choose a stronger filter, although in your case you are limited somewhat due to the tank being a hex tank. Penguins are great filters. I have used them since I was first introduced to them in the 90's. When doing a water change just make sure you clean the gravel to remove the crap that will build up under it. If you had a undergravel this would trap the debris, your Penguin gives you the biological filtration the undergravel was designed for intially.
The water should clear on its own. When a tank is cycling you will get some clouding because of the chemical changes it goes through. Avoid any type of "quick fix" or chemical to clear this as usually if this occurs in an established tank there is an underlying water/chemical issue that needs attention. I would say you should notice it clearing in a few days.
Also as a side note that may not apply, some gravel if not made correctly will cause this because the color coating, especially with poorly made white gravel is coming off. Happy fish keeping!!

Answer
Yes you can use it however, it will raise your pH even with a small piece it get your pH to about 8. If the fish you want are comfortable in that pH go for it, although aside from African Cichlids and some South American Cichlids most prefer 5-6 but that just a general rule and I have broken a lot of "you shouldn't" in the fish hobby. It won't kill your fish and they will get used to it over time so I won't recommend it or say not to try it. Best of luck!!!