Budget Friendly Lighting

[DarrenCar]

I am almost at the point where I need lighting. I will have fish, LR and some soft corals (mushrooms, Zoa's and leathers) in the future. I wish to have 1 light fixture above a 65 gallon 36x18x24 tank. I have been looking at the VIPARSPECTRA Timer Control Series 300W fixture. This is exactly perfect for my budget. Any advice on this light or recommendations on a ~$200 light setup for my tank.
Thanks,
Darren

 

[glb]

I am almost at the point where I need lighting. I will have fish, LR and some soft corals (mushrooms, Zoa's and leathers) in the future. I wish to have 1 light fixture above a 65 gallon 36x18x24 tank. I have been looking at the VIPARSPECTRA Timer Control Series 300W fixture. This is exactly perfect for my budget. Any advice on this light or recommendations on a ~$200 light setup for my tank.
Thanks,
Darren

Is that an led or t5 fixture?

 

[DarrenCar]

It is an LED. Measures 31.5 inches in length and cost $219

 

[jefra]

There a number of "black box" or "Chinese black box" fixtures that would be more than adequate for a soft coral tank. These are pretty cheap on both Amazon and eBay. My local reef club has a Facebook group where I see other hobbyists selling used ones for good deals as well. I think buying used saves a ton of money, especially for a new tank where you're not entirely sure exactly what you want and don't care about the elite equipment brands. Also, buying a used light is pretty safe, you'll be able to see that it's working when you buy it unlike a tank that could have a hidden leak.