Should I get a hybrid T5/LED fixture?

[lhuynh]

So...I bought a used Red Sea Reefer 750 (72" length) a few months ago. It came with 4 AI Hydra 26 lights.

My plan is to have a mixed reef with mostly LPS, SPS, and some clams. I figured these lights would work for the time being, but I always thought I might upgrade lighting.

Now the lighting mounts are causing me problems and to get four new ones or to get a new mounting solution, it looks like I'll spend around $300+. My newest thought/way to spend (waste?) money I shouldn't is to get a 60" hybrid fixture to add T5s to this lighting setup. That will run around $500.

Should I do it? What are the benefits? Are there a ton more things I can add to the tank in the long run with upgraded lighting? Which brand would folks recommend?

Thanks for the advice!

 

[Donny41]

If you feel that you want to go SPS dominant would vote yes, especially if the other mounting solutions you are looking at cost that much. I have an aquatic life 24 in over my reefer 250 with two hydra 26s and I am very happy with it (wish I had the 36 in but I opted for the extra hydra instead.) I think an extra 300 now would be well worth it in the future if you decide to go heavier on the sps

 

[lhuynh]

That makes sense. Having the flexibility appeals to me. And I'm ordering a tank cover now, so deciding whether I can eliminate cutouts for the light mounts also helps.