Thoughts on Beginner Lighting

[Reefguy13]

I dabbled in reefing a few years back and got out of it but like all that leave it sucks you back in! I still consider my self pretty new and now the technology is so much better than even 5 years ago when I started. I have a IM Fusion 20 peninsula and right now it is just a fowlr tank but hoping after the first of the year to dabble in coral for the first time. Only going to be stocking simple easy to care for corals. What is a good light that is affordable for this. I looked at the Current USA Orbits and they seem to be the best in that $100-$200 price range. Thoughts??

 

[Bouncingsoul39]

There are many options and for soft corals and LPS. The question will be what looks good to your eye and what you can afford. For shallow tanks, the Current Orbits are a fine. They are not popular in the hobby though so you will see people saying you need to get an AI this or Kessil that. Another brand that is affordable and good quality that would work well for you is Finnex LED. They have a nice slim design, low profile and good output for shallow tanks.
AquaVibrant is the retail arm of Finnex: http://aquavibrant.com/

 

[Reefguy13]

Thanks I will check that out

 

[Pntbll687]

The new current loop series lights are a little more but give more control and some cool features like rolling clouds and lightning storms.

If you want to go with T5 lights you can pick up fixtures pretty cheap online that are ok to start with that have just a basic on/off switch.

I have both the current loop lights on my 29g, and a cheap T5 on my frag tank. Don’t think I’m gonna get any fancier than that anytime soon.

For what it’s worth. The led lights have a great “pop” to them. But the T5 have a more natural look, and are a little more appealing

 

[nautical_nathaniel]

The coralife 24" dual bulb fixture would be a good low-cost, low-fuss lighting solution for the IM Nuvo Fusion 20.

https://www.amazon.com/Coralife-Aqualight-Output-Fixture-24-Inch/dp/B002P9MFW0

 

[JaimeAdams]

The PAR values on the current LED is pretty low. As is the PAR on all of these 1/4w or 1w chip LED lights that you see around. You would be better off in my opinion with a T-5, I would suggest a 4 bulb unit and as money allows upgrade the bulbs to a better bulb such as ATI. If you do go with T-5 make sure to get a T-% HO and a 24 inch set-up not an 18inch. If you are dead set on LED I would buy a basic SB Reef Lights 16" box and keep it turned way down.

 

[Scottshopinc]

The PAR values on the current LED is pretty low. As is the PAR on all of these 1/4w or 1w chip LED lights that you see around. You would be better off in my opinion with a T-5, I would suggest a 4 bulb unit and as money allows upgrade the bulbs to a better bulb such as at. If you do go with T-5 make sure to get a T-% HO and a 24 inch set-up not an 18inch. If you are dead set on LED I would buy a basic SB Reef Lights 16" box and keep it turned way down.

I have basic 16 on my nuvo 20. you would need to hang it, I can only use the legs and only run the blues atm. its alot of light for a small tank too much IMO.

 

[Reefguy13]

Thanks. Ya hanging them isnt an option where the tank is right now

 

[jsker]

I had the current orbit marine light, and they are great light. I upgraded after about a year to a different light and my coral growth took off. Just do the math, and spend once.

 

[mamedina]

I have the current marine leds on my 29. Zoas are doing well and the lights look great. Like others said not too powerful though and I will be upgrading, but if you just wanted some softies and zoas I’d say the orbit marine leds would be fine.

 

[Grey Guy]

I dabbled in reefing a few years back and got out of it but like all that leave it sucks you back in! I still consider my self pretty new and now the technology is so much better than even 5 years ago when I started. I have a IM Fusion 20 peninsula and right now it is just a fowlr tank but hoping after the first of the year to dabble in coral for the first time. Only going to be stocking simple easy to care for corals. What is a good light that is affordable for this. I looked at the Current USA Orbits and they seem to be the best in that $100-$200 price range. Thoughts??

If your tank is new, you will not need a lot of lighting for a while. Do a lot of research. Then you may find what you want on sale or used. Don’t listen to the salesman. The Orbits would be fine during cycling or for a FOWLR system. I use mine for morning and dusk lighting.