Beginner combo light question

[Edroeg]

I've searched numerous websites and read a lot of threads on here regarding lighting and to say my head is spinning with all of the options is an understatement. I currently have my first saltwater reef tank and have a basic LED reef light over it. I've been reading about LED T5 combos and it sounds like the way to go but I'm struggling with figuring out what route to go. It seems like so many lights are sold in sections and you have to buy this mount with that light and this controller and so on. I'm really just trying to find a good beginner light that just comes as a package that will provide suitable growth and show off colors. My tank is 48" long by 18" wide by 18" deep. Can anyone point me in the direction of a light or light system that's programable that I should look at? I'd prefer not to jump right into a $1500 setup. I've been down tons of paths but always seem to end up going in circles.

 

[Snoopy 67]

Lighting can be a challenge to say the least.
First decide on what you will keep, Softies, LPS or SPS.
That will determine just how much light you actually need.
If it's fish only you need even less "PUNCH".
BRS did a series on led lighting, it's on YouTube.
Watch it.

 

[Doctorgori]

I gave up on T5’s hybrids a few yrs back, esp since diffuser and spread specs for LED’s has improved….
I know this setup has a lot of fans but I don’t see any T5 tech trending up but sorta more like “hanging on” similar to MH … I think it’s time has passed…

Edit, a array of less expensive lights could be a option: a.i blades, photons, noopsyches, nicrew et et

 

[oreo54]

I've searched numerous websites and read a lot of threads on here regarding lighting and to say my head is spinning with all of the options is an understatement. I currently have my first saltwater reef tank and have a basic LED reef light over it. I've been reading about LED T5 combos and it sounds like the way to go but I'm struggling with figuring out what route to go. It seems like so many lights are sold in sections and you have to buy this mount with that light and this controller and so on. I'm really just trying to find a good beginner light that just comes as a package that will provide suitable growth and show off colors. My tank is 48" long by 18" wide by 18" deep. Can anyone point me in the direction of a light or light system that's programable that I should look at? I'd prefer not to jump right into a $1500 setup. I've been down tons of paths but always seem to end up going in circles.

Is 120 watts of leds good enough at around $1/Watt (guarantee you will not find anything cheaper..oh wait.. less expensive)

Aquamaxx is a rebranded Micmol AFAICT.

MicMol - Professional LED Aquarium Lighting Systems

Premium LED aquarium lighting systems with smart controls, customizable schedules, and advanced RGB spectrum for freshwater and reef aquariums. Shop our collection of Aqua Max, Vision, Felix, M7, and THOR LED lights.

www.micmol.com

Prism II LED Light Fixture - Planted

Thinner. Lighter. Smarter. The new thinner and lighter AquaMaxx Prism II controllable full HD spectrum LED fixture is created from 100% recycled aluminum. Its brushed silver, ultra-slim profile design gives it an aesthetic edge over the competition, and its updated external smart controller...

www.bulkreefsupply.com

To be brutally honest.. "If" the light goes south I will guarantee it is one of the least amount of $$'s you will probably "lose" along the line..


Newly released Aqua Max 900 panel (350 actual watts so they say) is $1000
15pcs - Cold White 12000K CH-A
6pcs - Warm White 3500K CH-A
3pcs - Mint 490nm CH-A
3pcs - Orange 590nm CH-A
3pcs - IR Red 740nm CH-A

60pcs - Blue 470nm CH-B
30pcs - Royal Blue 450nm CH-B

60pcs - Deep Blue 440nm CH-C

30pcs - Royal Blue 450nm CH-D
30pcs - Deep Blue 435nm CH-D
9pcs - Deep Blue 430nm CH-D
9pcs - Deep Blue 420nm CH-D
6pcs - UV 415nm CH-D (note: not UV, common useage though, unfortunately)
6pcs - UV 395nm CH-D

THIS is just for options..no recommendations..
People say they want panels...

 

[Edroeg]

Thanks for all the feedback, I'm headed out to watch some youtube videos as suggested and research some of these lights. I will primarily be keeping LPS and softies in this setup. I appreciate the feedback on the T5. I was thinking that was what was needed to get the colors to show more. It helps a lot knowing that I can focus more on the LED panels. Thanks!

 

[oreo54]

Thanks for all the feedback, I'm headed out to watch some youtube videos as suggested and research some of these lights. I will primarily be keeping LPS and softies in this setup. I appreciate the feedback on the T5. I was thinking that was what was needed to get the colors to show more. It helps a lot knowing that I can focus more on the LED panels. Thanks!

Make sure you decide what you want and what you need..
Not necessarily related to others needs/ wants As with everything in life it is easy to over complicate things.