I am in the setup phase of my new 150 gallon tank and have everything I need to finish it on order besides lighting. While I'd love nothing more than than to order a few XR30s it just isn't in the budget.
My goal is to go SPS dominate (love acros and millis) and I currently have 2 16" SB Reeflight basics from my old 75 gallon tank that I can use. I've narrowed it down to two options that I'd like your thoughts on, but am open to others.
Option 1: Buy 2 more 16" basic fixtures for a total of 4.
So I guess the question comes down to is a hybrid setup worth nearly double the upfront cost plus annual bulb cost, or can I get the same coral health and growth with the simplicity and cost savings of just a bank of LEDs?
My goal is to go SPS dominate (love acros and millis) and I currently have 2 16" SB Reeflight basics from my old 75 gallon tank that I can use. I've narrowed it down to two options that I'd like your thoughts on, but am open to others.
Option 1: Buy 2 more 16" basic fixtures for a total of 4.
- Cost = $269
- Hung so that the lights are orientated longways front to back, should give plenty of coverage.
- No bulbs to replace
- Cost = $495
- Hung so 2 T5s on front, 2 in back and 3 led fixtures down the middle
- Light diffusion and shadow reduction of T5s with color/shimmer of LEDs
- $100 a year in bulb costs
So I guess the question comes down to is a hybrid setup worth nearly double the upfront cost plus annual bulb cost, or can I get the same coral health and growth with the simplicity and cost savings of just a bank of LEDs?
