thanks for the comments

so, we added a 4 inch sandbed using sand from an existing system (well rinsed with discard salt water). then a water change on the big tank provided the water. moved a little live rock from the big tank as well as some duplicate gorgonians, gsp, anthelia, orange zoas, and a baby orange carnation that is reproducing in the big tank. i also added a strip of blue leds to the light fixture to give a little better color to the pc lights. we picked up a yellow male H. erectus and a black female H. erectus from AD and they are happy as can be. the boys want to add pipe fish and some other things as well, this is where their patience will be tested a bit as i dont want to add too much at once.

water is still clearing - yes, the boys insisted on a pirate ship in their tank