light for 3ft x 1ft x 21in "mixed" reef

[LifeOfAquatics]

hey, so i have a 40 gallon ( 3 feet long, 1 foot wide, 21 in tall) and am in need of a light for the tank. I do not really have plans for any of the major SPS, just maybe birdsnest or some other simple sps. my tank is going to have lps being the majority. with that being said, I am unsure what light to go for. I am thinking of leds as I simply do not know enough about the other types and just felt leds were the safest bet. i am looking to spend no more than around 150-160$. since I am not doing much sps, i cant find a light(s) that could give me the coverage i need without blasting out too much par. any suggestions? thanks in advance!

 

[noopsyche Verified Sponsor]

hey, so i have a 40 gallon ( 3 feet long, 1 foot wide, 21 in tall) and am in need of a light for the tank. I do not really have plans for any of the major SPS, just maybe birdsnest or some other simple sps. my tank is going to have lps being the majority. with that being said, I am unsure what light to go for. I am thinking of leds as I simply do not know enough about the other types and just felt leds were the safest bet. i am looking to spend no more than around 150-160$. since I am not doing much sps, i cant find a light(s) that could give me the coverage i need without blasting out too much par. any suggestions? thanks in advance!

First floor.You can check out K7 v3 140 watt.The controller is a separate option. Check out the cart and you will find final prices $158 for the light.

 

[nereefpat]

That isn't much budget.

I would go with a black box like viparspectra. I have seen 40 breeders (36x18" footprint) successfully lit that way.

You could also go with a bar, like SBreef or reefbreeders, but you would only be able to get 1 with that budget.

 

[LifeOfAquatics]

That isn't much budget.

I would go with a black box like viparspectra. I have seen 40 breeders (36x18" footprint) successfully lit that way.

You could also go with a bar, like SBreef or reefbreeders, but you would only be able to get 1 with that budget.

Would one viperspectra be enough for my tank? I may be able to get a second one later in the future, but definitely not anytime soon. Also, how should I mount the light? Ik they give a mounting kit but it’s a bit too short for me, is there like a bracket or a arm that can hold the light? Maybe a DIY build?

 

[nereefpat]

Would one viperspectra be enough for my tank?

It will for sure cover back to front and at least 30" or so. I would mount it as high as you can. That brand comes with some hanging hardware, but you'll likely have to find something to hang it from.