Your tank sounds good. I wouldn't run the micro filter as it will strip allot of beneficial elements from the water. On the other hand - *if* you can add enough to "make up" for what you're removing, then you have the best of both worlds. Im afraid using that approach may initiate risks and costs that are un necessary. This is typically what happens... you jump through all the hoops to get it nice, then... try to "make it better" It's natural. No doubt by now you have your own experience as to what works and most of the mystery has been removed - so, you probably qualify for some experimentation. Although my recommendation would be not to use the micro filter (maybe once a week at most) or if your expecting a large group of people to visit Then you'll look like a real magician I love the success stories! Robert