Cheap Sps Lighting options

[HookedAquatics]

I started a second tank recently (L:24in w:24 in h:12 in) and I know for sure that I want to load it with montipora. With that said I feel like my AI Prime doesn't do the job well enough in my 12g nano tank. I started looking into other lights, but lights like radio and orphek cost more than my college tuition. My budget is under 300 bucks.

 

[redfishbluefish]

They aren't cheap, they're just less expensive....what are commonly referred to as "Chinese Black Box" lights. I've been running these for years over my tank and have no complaints. An example, just picking one of many that are available, is Mars Aqua 165 w....a perfect size for a 24 by 24 tank:

 

[Caseyoidae]

I second the black box. Vipar spectra are on sale for $99 on eBay. https://www.ebay.com/itm/VIPARSPECT...rentrq:b8646e901740aa64aceed2effff23922|iid:1

 

[redfishbluefish]

FYI, I'm running the old basic model of SB Reef fixtures.

 

[redfishbluefish]

I second the black box. Vipar spectra are on sale for $99 on eBay. https://www.ebay.com/itm/VIPARSPECTRA-Timer-Control-165W-LED-Aquarium-Light-For-Coral-Reef-Grow-Fish-Tank/292593920226?_trkparms=aid=777001&algo=DISCO.FEED&ao=1&asc=225080&meid=02e8a1916c1d4473aac4360cf373bcc4&pid=101214&rk=1&rkt=1&mehot=pp&itm=292593920226&pmt=1&noa=1&pg=2380057&algv=RecommendingSearch&brand=&_trksid=p2380057.c101214.m46344&_trkparms=pageci:e6a7ba53-fd34-11ea-bb36-9eda8df67732|parentrq:b8646e901740aa64aceed2effff23922|iid:1

Wow! I haven't look in some time, but surprised that 100 bucks buys this light with controls built in. That's a deal! I have to use a controller for my "dumb" CBB's.

 

[Caseyoidae]

I just upgraded to one of these last week from my old bb that I ran off apex.It was pretty old, still worked pretty good but not as bright as it once was. Of course I paid 109$ lol they’re awesome for the price and have timers/ remote. I have both the 165 and 300W now on different tanks.

Wow! I haven't look in some time, but surprised that 100 bucks buys this light with controls built in. That's a deal! I have to use a controller for my "dumb" CBB's.

 

[92Miata]

The Viparspectra for $100 are a smoking deal.


You can also check used lights - I've seen Hydras down below 200 on here - or a second prime for <150. I paid 300 for my gen3 radion xr30

 

[Wildcats1023]

Viparspectra are great lights. I have 5 on my 220