Well, I could suggest a couple of things.

if you are starting with just a few plants I would suggest that you either

a. build a simple ebb and flow table, - very easy, very easy to maintain - http://boards.cannabis.com/showthread.php?t=93511

b. build a series of buckets that are all connected in a line, then pump water out of the last bucket back into your res and that will inturn fill up the first bucket and so on, making a circulating system, only 1 low flow water pumpis needed, and only 1 good 6 inch airstone in your res. very cheap and easily expandable.
geekygrower Reviewed by geekygrower on . Hydro top feed system. Folks, Went to the hardware shop today and picked up everything I think that I need to get a hydro system rollin and would like some advice. I am planning on starting off with just a couple of plants to get my feet wet. I picked up the following items 10 gal res water pump 1" adapter 200 gph Rating: 5