First tank lighting investment

[Riccio16]

I recently started my first marine system, and due to my inexperience chose to use a 20 gallon tank to get started. The tank was used and came with a standard freshwater hood/light but I would like to get my feet wet with the building a reef. Obviously I will need a higher powered lighting system to do so but the question becomes, "How much do I really want to invest in lighting for a 20 gallon tank if I plan on upgrading in the relatively near future?"

Any insight on which lighting types/manufacturers would give me a decent bang for buck and those of which I might want to avoid?

 

[NanoNathan]

id look at our sponsers on this site that sell the LED pendants. great prices and you can always buy more for a bigger tank. 8) lighting is one of the most inportant things for a reef system.

 

[capysolo]

Get dimmable, either pendant or fixture. One that might just barely fit or even be a little big for your tank. Unless you are handy and wanted to try diy. If you diy, you can start with a good sized heatsink but only a few leds, then add more when you upgrade tanks.

 

[stiddley]

I actually have a dual dimmable led fixture from innovative marine that is brand new will let go for 225 shipped. It retails for 339 on marine depot. I bought it with a package and decided to go with a razr instead. The lights are bright enough to sustain any lps and some sps too, but unfortunately for me the corals Im putting in are all high light specific. pm me if youre interested

 

[Tabasco1]

If you already have a mind for upgrading, you might take a look at what people are selling to get a better deal. Alot of the LED systems are kindof set up to be "modular". I just hesitate suggsting buying one of the mondular type now and then picking up some more when you upgrade. The technology will be better and might (propably) won't match what you currently have.

I'd get something specifically for that tank. There are alot of use fixtures that will work well for a 24" tank. Get em used for a deal and see what you like.

 

[jgraz]

What kind of 20gal. Long or High. I had a 20gal High nano and ran a 4x24" T5. I grew anything I wanted, wherever I wanted.

 

[Softhammer]

Reefledlights.com has an awesome new fixture. Will work for a 20, is controllable, upgradeable and will work as is on any bigger tank in the future as well!