Am I just throwing away money?

KJoFan · Aug 27, 2017

Current setup is a 66g sps/acro dominant tank. Dimensions are 32x24x20. Current lighting is a Reefbrite 250w MH pendant w/ 4x Reefbrite XHO blue strips (only really used for dawn/dusk effect).

I'm considering changing this out for a Giesemann 24" Spectra. So, I'd be essentially adding 4x T5 bulbs.

My concern is that as the tank fills in I'll be lacking some light, especially around the edges and lower down. Right now everything is pretty much small frags so probably fine.

Is my current setup sufficient long term or would the switch be wiser?

justingraham · Aug 27, 2017

KJoFan said:
Current setup is a 66g sps/acro dominant tank. Dimensions are 32x24x20. Current lighting is a Reefbrite 250w MH pendant w/ 4x Reefbrite XHO blue strips (only really used for dawn/dusk effect).

I'm considering changing this out for a Giesemann 24" Spectra. So, I'd be essentially adding 4x T5 bulbs.

My concern is that as the tank fills in I'll be lacking some light, especially around the edges and lower down. Right now everything is pretty much small frags so probably fine.

Is my current setup sufficient long term or would the switch be wiser?

What I run on my tank well two of them I have a par picture on my build thread if you would like to look into it.

I would say first off why do u want to switch?

KJoFan · Aug 27, 2017

justingraham said:
What I run on my tank well two of them I have a par picture on my build thread if you would like to look into it.

I would say first off why do u want to switch?

I'll take a look at your par numbers. Main reason to switch is really just concern I don't or more importantly won't have enough light once the tank fills in. At least, I'm hoping all these acro frags turn into colonies.

But really, that's my biggest reason/concern, that the single 250w just won't have enough coverage down the road.

justingraham · Aug 27, 2017

Is the reefbrite a 16 inch reflector?

I think u will be fine

KJoFan · Aug 27, 2017

justingraham said:
Is the reefbrite a 16 inch reflector?

I think u will be fine

Yeah, it's the 15 or 16", whatever size that is.

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KJoFan · Aug 27, 2017

EriksOasis · Aug 27, 2017

Have you looked into led? The research and results are worth the money in the long run. Possibly look into it proven to grow sps really well.

KJoFan · Aug 27, 2017

EriksOasis said:
Have you looked into led? The research and results are worth the money in the long run. Possibly look into it proven to grow sps really well.

I have, and I know some get great results with led. Me, on the other hand, haven't had the best of luck with led, so I kept it simple/old school this time, at least for now.