Best LED Light For Reef Setup?

GoTakeANap · May 5, 2019

Hello everyone. Its been a long time since I have been on the forums. I am out of the loop on lighting now since its been i know 2-3 years since ive posted. What is the best light for the money for a reef tank? I currently have a 54 Gallon corner tank. I'm using a AI 1st Gen Hydra. Wanting to upgrade before I get back into corals. Thank you in advance.

richiero · May 5, 2019

I like reefbreeders

User1 · May 5, 2019

There really isn't a best it comes down to personal preference, reef type you are keeping, and a budget. I would start by asking yourself what sort of saltwater aquarium you are planning to keep, long term goals, and then how much can you invest up front for lighting. That will help guide you with a purchase and the best bang for the dollar.

Not trying to be vague but corals have different needs be it soft, LPS, or SPS. Having a bit of a plan or goal or just an idea will save you some money buying something right the first time. Note I didn't even factor in light type, manual, or automated control :) The bells and whistles only increase the cost. However, if you have a controller it is something to consider.

GoTakeANap · May 5, 2019

It will LPS and polys.

GoTakeANap · May 5, 2019

saf1 said:
There really isn't a best it comes down to personal preference, reef type you are keeping, and a budget. I would start by asking yourself what sort of saltwater aquarium you are planning to keep, long term goals, and then how much can you invest up front for lighting. That will help guide you with a purchase and the best bang for the dollar.

Not trying to be vague but corals have different needs be it soft, LPS, or SPS. Having a bit of a plan or goal or just an idea will save you some money buying something right the first time. Note I didn't even factor in light type, manual, or automated control :) The bells and whistles only increase the cost. However, if you have a controller it is something to consider.

It will be LPS and Polys.

jtl · May 5, 2019

The best is the one that will grow corals and luckily most will do that. I have a Reefbreeders and that has worked well for me and many others without have to break the bank. The very cheap so called black boxes are a mixed bag. If they have quality leds, like Cree and are of sufficient wattage they can work. To me it is important to have enough functions to stagger the intensity throughout the photo period.

TexasTodd · May 5, 2019

Depends more on what you want to spend. Like best light for a 54g corner up to $XXX(X)?
Personally I'd say Orphek Atlantic or Radion Gen 4 30pro are "best" but they're also expensive compared to other options.
I don't run them but would if they weren't so expensive.
I have ReefBreeders and Orphek OR bars.
Many feel that the hybri T5/LED are "best" look at ATI.

GoTakeANap · May 5, 2019

TexasTodd said:
Depends more on what you want to spend. Like best light for a 54g corner up to $XXX(X)?
Personally I'd say Orphek Atlantic or Radion Gen 4 30pro are "best" but they're also expensive compared to other options.
I don't run them but would if they weren't so expensive.
I have ReefBreeders and Orphek OR bars.
Many feel that the hybri T5/LED are "best" look at ATI.

I was thinking about the AI Hydra 52 HD. Wondering how it compares to the Radion Gen 4.