Nice start. I also was also into cichlids and now just do saltwater.
The combination of live rock, sand and skimmer is all you need. The emperor will just create more nitrates that will feed un-wanted algae.
If your using it's pump for flow then pull the bio wheel out of it. I would also pull the pads out. you could use the optional empty holders for just carbon.
I would say first just pull the pads, then a week later pull the wheel. That should give your rock a chance to adjust it bacteria to you system.