Small saltwater aquarium set-up for beginner

Question
Thanks for the information.  My first step then is to buy the aquarium and get it cycling.  My local shop has a variety of styles including basic tanks and complete systems.  The shopkeeper suggested an aquapod. What do you know about aquapod aquariums or aquariums like them?  They seem a bit small (24gal) but also convenient with everything contained in the hood.  
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Followup To

Question -
I am relatively new to salt water aquariums.  I am interested in putting together a small habitat (20gal) with a small number of fish, inverts and possibly plants or live rock.  I understand that the smaller the tank is the harder it is to keep the environment safe and healthy.  My question is what would be the best selection of inhabitants for a relative beginner and what size/type of tanks should I be looking for?  Any help or direction would be great.  Thanks

Answer -

Aaron,

I would go with a 29 gallon tank. They are a standard and can be found anywhere.  They are a basic rectangle shape.
This way you can buy all of the standard components such as lighting, filtration, etc.

Damsels area great choice for beginners.  They are hardy and can withstand a wide range of water parameters. You can get blue, yellow, three stripe, black and white.  They come in various colors. They are inexpensive too.  I like crabs and shrimp for inverts.  I have a 29 set-up with 3 damsels and two emerald crabs plus a pair coral banded shrimp.  These shrimps are my favorite.  If you look hard enough you can get a mated pair for 20.00.  The only downside is if they do not come in a pair.  You can only buy one because males will fight all of the time.They need to be 1 male and 1 female. These shrimp are hardy and easy to take care of.  They are also great for beginners.

Buy cured live rock. I would buy about 20 pounds for your set-up.  Make sure the rock has been fully cured for at least 4-6 weeks. This ensures that there is a complete die-off.


Good luck
Todd

Answer

Aaron,

I do not like those systems because they are kind of small (& can be cheap).
They have self-contained components which are not too good.
I would go with the set-up in my previous answer.  You are right concerning your 1st step of cycling.  I think you should start this process with the live rock.

Thanks Todd