re: Does anyone here utilize a sump?

Then yes, it is definitely worth it.

The sump will add more volume to the aquarium, and the more water volume you have, the easier it will be to maintain the appropriate pH, alkalinity, calcium, etc. that you will need. Daily evaporation will not cause huge swings that may harm the inhabitants.

It is also more aesthetically pleasing, because when you utilize a sump the water level in the display tank remains constant. It also gives you an area out of sight to store all your equipment such as skimmer, temp, ph probe, recirculating pump, etc.

Get some acrylic and build your own to fit whatever space you have under the stand- much cheaper than buying prebuilt sumps. incorporate a small refugium and throw some chaeto and a light to help with nitrates.