14 gallon budget build

[mmmaskey86]

It’s been a while since I’ve had a tank and I’m feeling the itch once again. I’m limited on the size due to being in a rental property and I want to keep cost relatively low as well. I had the tank and stand already and a couple of odds and ends. I’m planning on keeping softies, zoas, and a bit of lps with a couple of fish and a cleaner shrimp. My current equipment includes:
14 g tall tank and stand
Aqua clear 70 (bio media only)
Aqua clear 50 (chemipure blue and floss)
Hygger 50 w titanium heater
Koralia nano 240 power head
Instant ocean reef crystals
10 lbs Carib sea south sea base rock
ATC refractometer w calibration solution
Bio spira marine starter
API saltwater master kit (will upgrade later)
Dr Tim’s ammonium chloride (for cycle)

I am currently weighing the pros and cons of bare bottom vs substrate and have not fully decided on my lighting. I have it narrowed down to a few but would love to hear opinions from the community (if anyone actually reads this). My shortlist is as follows:
Current USA IC led (reg and pro)
Kessil A80 tuna blue
Aqua Illumination Prime led
Hipargero led
Viparspectra 165w led

I think the controllability factor vs price point is what’s keeping me from making a decision here. Again, would like to hear what everyone thinks.

 

[brooks]

I’m running an A80 over a 16 inch high 10 gallon cube about 5 inches off the water. It should get the job done for the livestock you are planning to keep. For controllability you’d need the spectral if you want to program it. At minimum a timer or smart outlet. So that route around 160-170.
The AI is around 200 with a fantastic interface and will serve you well into the future.

I’m not familiar with the other lights listed.
Check out the selling forum i bet someone has one listed.