New Reef Tank set up and substrates

[oerussc]

Do I have to use a substrate on the bottom of my tank? I am cycling my 77 gallon tank with 25 # of live rock and I really don't want to scratch the inside of my acrylic tank while cleaning. I am worried about ph levels. Anyone buffer their tank in lieu of utilizing a substrate?

[Sardaukar]

No you dont have to have a substrate. I wish I had gone substrateless and my next tank will be bare bottom.

[oerussc]

Thanks for the reply. I have had several varieties of salt water tanks in the past and I have concluded that I do not want the substrates. However, I do have concerns about balncing ph levels... any experience in the matter?