Bang for buck SPS Lighting 80 gallon

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mortician

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Hello all,

I got a new tank that is approx 46x19x19 rimless tank. I would like to eventually grow acros in the tanks. I will also want some LPS and zoas towards the bottom. I am wondering what people recommend for best bang for buck lighting to accomplish this SPS dominant setup.

I've seen a lot of recommendations for viparspectra or T5 hybrid systems with LEDs. I'm open to any setup even all T5 but I am wanting input in how many and what size for any recommendations.

Thank you!
 
I'd say pick a budget and then see what your options are. With lighting people have success with the "black boxes" to Radions and beyond.
Also, know what the lighting demands are for the SPS you want to keep. Not all SPS are the same when it comes to lighting.
 
6x T5 if you use them alone. 3 or 4 LED panels that cover 24x24 area if you want to use them alone - they don't actually cover that much. 2 or 3 LED panels with 2 to 4 T5s if you want a hybrid.

That is a good place to start. Assume half the coverage area that the LED manufacturer tells you when SPS start to grow and shadows become a real thing.
 

WHICH PART OF YOUR SETUP IS HARDEST TO REACH OR REMOVE FOR ROUTINE MAINTENANCE?

  • Glass behind or beside the tank

    Votes: 6 30.0%
  • Powerheads or wavemakers

    Votes: 2 10.0%
  • Sump or rear filtration chambers

    Votes: 2 10.0%
  • Skimmer or other filtration equipment

    Votes: 1 5.0%
  • Overflow or plumbing

    Votes: 6 30.0%
  • Lights or lids

    Votes: 0 0.0%
  • Mine is pretty easy to access!

    Votes: 2 10.0%
  • Other—tell us what I missed

    Votes: 1 5.0%
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