I'm working on setting up my first 10 gallon reef tank. I need to find a light that will support all corals that I would potentially have. I really don't want to spend a fortune on the light because I'd rather put that money inside the tank. I have managed to find some lights that claim to be good enough for all corals but it'll have mixed reviews so I'm not sure what to believe. I'd love some advice. Thank you!
Light for 10g?
- Thread starter Animallover8
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NeonRabbit221B
2500 Club Member
Lighting and flow are two pieces of equipment that I used a budget approach when starting my tanks. I regret both decisions because as soon as I upgraded to a quality light and powerhead my reef exploded with growth.
With that being said... What is your budget? What types of coral do you plan to keep in the tank?
With that being said... What is your budget? What types of coral do you plan to keep in the tank?
May want to share what light you are looking at. budget: kessil a80, though all corals may be tough to do with it. Ai primehd 32 may be about perfect for it. but looking at $209. some have luck with the viparspectra black box light for 129. ive used the viparspectra on 40 and had luck with it.
NeonRabbit221B
2500 Club Member
The AI Prime would meet most of those needs. I would suggest buying a used/new older model (AI Prime HD) if you are on a budget. I bought mine new for $150 a few months back.
an alternative is keep checking in locally at fish shops and on facebook regional groups for deals. most states have atleast one or two.. in south carolina, i know of 2 with one covering the whole state and the other being around the middle of state where i live. though being pre-owned can be a deal, they can go out quicker.. i was able to get 2 ai primes, for 200. and one partially went out.
Thank you for the suggestions. I do have some lights in mind.
Orbit Marine LED
Fluval Sea Marine & Reef LED Nano
sBox Sprite Reef Nano Gen 2
Marineland LED Bright Lighting
While researching these lights some people say it worked wonderfully for them, while others say that it's not strong enough for most corals.
Orbit Marine LED
Fluval Sea Marine & Reef LED Nano
sBox Sprite Reef Nano Gen 2
Marineland LED Bright Lighting
While researching these lights some people say it worked wonderfully for them, while others say that it's not strong enough for most corals.
NeonRabbit221B
2500 Club Member
I would skip out on the Marineland option. I don't know if the nano fluval light will provide enough spread but I have seen a few tanks use them (or two). Orbit Marine wouldn't be a bad choice. Literally just spewing out what I have seen. The real test would be to search around on google for people who have done independent PAR studies
