reef tank without a filter

[FLESHY]

i've been doing some research on reef tanks and found a few places recommending just a skimmer, live rock, and sand. was wondering how effective this is? for a beginner would a filter be a better choice?

This is called a "Berlin" System. Its what I run, and if you siphon your aragonite, and have a high quality skimmer, it is one of the best ways to keep your h2o quality impeccable.