Canister filter

I've seen some pretty nice systems using canister filters. I personally wouldn't do it just because they require very militant maintenance and I know I wouldn't keep up on it well.

Fish only would be less susceptible to issues with Nitrates and phosphates that would spike if the filter isn't maintained and kept clean, but the algae that can kick off due to those levels can be very hard to get under control once it get a hold.

So, doable for sure. However, if you are not a VERY scheduled and reliable maintenance type guy then I would look for other options.

Sounds like you've looked into it some then. My suggestion if you're going this route is to get the biggest (multiple chamber) canister you can afford. The extra water volume they hold will be beneficial as well as make sure you have a little overhead on the filtration capacity. The multiple chambers will allow you to choose a few different filter media to give you the results you are trying to achieve.

Also look at features and how easy the canisters are to open and access for maintenance. There is nothing worse than buying one only to find out it takes two hours, 6 buckets and 14 towels to change the filters.

I ran one on my old 125g for like 4 years. I kept softies and anemones in it, but nothing more sophisticated. It worked great!

I also used an AllFlo Freedom Filter/Skimmer. Instead of being an HOB skimmer, the box fits inside the tank, so it basically looks like an overflow. It worked surprisingly well, but I don' think they make them anymore.

If I could do it all over again, I'd probably use a Remora HOB skimmer.

There are varoius and other pretty nice systems using canister filters. Many aspects leads to the perfect aquarium.
Filtration is important though. It is much better to have aquaristic online
and follow a content equipments for filtration.