First grow planning advice

First let me say what a fantastic forum – great advice from very helpful people. I’m fascinated by the wealth of info here. There is so much info that I’ve become a bit overloaded and could use some early advice on my first grow.
Below are my general criteria:

• · I’m not seeking a huge grow (4-5 plant max)

• · I’m fairly handy with tools and have basic electrical skills, etc. (I actually prefer to build my own equipment as part of the fun)

• · I currently have a 400 watt MH light with an industrial lighting bulb installed (bulb requires vertical burn position) and I would like to use this lamp in the grow

• · I plan to fashion a cool tube arrangement for the light (unless it is not required)

• · I prefer to use soil vice hydro (primarily because I’m not familiar w/hydro)

• · I would like to avoid piping A/C into the grow area to manage temps

• · I have a fair degree of flexibility on grow area size/stealth requirements

What are your general thoughts on a vertical grow/vertical light arrangement in a cabinet of approx size 18”x36”x72”? All comments/opinions welcomed – thanx in advance!