Lighting up 50g 30x24x16" shallow for sps

[daybreaksky]

Hi! I'm returning from over a decade long break and when I quit MH and T5 were king.
I have a IM 50 lagoon on order it's 30x24x16" and I plan on eventually keeping acros and other sps. Before I started doing research, I was just going to DIY a 6 or 8 bulb T5 just because I know how to and I'm comfortable knowing what I can keep under it.
However, as I do more research, LED sounds waaaaaaay better. One problem, my head is spinning trying to figure out which light to get. I don't plan on having 100% of space covered in coral, I'd rather do minimalist aqua scape and I like the clean look of LED fixtures so I want to say away from t5 entirely. I'm also not planning on getting Apex or other centralized controllers. my budget is under $500 if possible.


any help appreciated

 

[jtlmnop]

I have the same tank on order, and also struggling with lighting options. I was/am considering the Current USA Dual IC Pro 24”, because I like the sleek look, control options with the Loop, and price point. However, dispute their PAR chart estimates, I am being told they don’t support coral growth very well. So I will be curious to hear what others have to say

 

[bobnicaragua]

Orphek or3 bars have good spectrum and coverage. You can also mix them with other leds just like you would t5s.