Returning back to the hobby

[MadReefer]

I don't see a problem with the canister filter as long as you don't use any biological media in it (ceramic rings, bioballs, etc.). That's where you'd likely run into nitrate problems. Running a small amount of carbon or other nitrate or phosphate reducing media would be good if needed. You probably already know, but on a small tank, weekly or bi-weekly small water changes will probably get you the best results. A lot depends on if you're going to keep coral or not but it sounds like you are if you're spending money on T5s.

what normally happens is it works fine until its forgotten about for too long a period. its just complicating things honestly. why can filter when your liverock does that job completely all the way to nitrogen gas? yes a can filter can work, yes it has a factor of being an issue beyond what most people understand. not really here to argue this point because it has its pros and cons. but in my experience, less is sometimes better because this hobby doesnt have to be overly technical to scare off the people who just want things to be easy, simple, and enjoyable =)

anything that traps poo and passes water through it consistently is biological filtration. most can filters i see standard issue have a pleated type of filter, which does just that.