If u get a pro to maintain... u will probably have less troubles.... but u will missed lotsa fun, knowledge etc.
AM and GEO aquatics are great!
Equipment wise. Normally Good is not cheap, cheap is not good. (just a guide). Ur equipment will varies Depending on what u wanna keep. Try Aquamarine or Reefdepot from SRC sponsor. They have wide range of professional equipments. Talk to them and do some research on your own ( talk to more reefers) before u make a choice.