Lighting a mixed 7 footer

Titleist · Jan 13, 2019

After going through all the online info on LED lighting, I'm still at a standstill on how to properly light a 7 foot mixed tank. Seems like even while sifting through the material the prices have gone up since about a month ago. Originally was considering Ecotechs, the Orphecks, then I note the Orpheck prices seem to have risen over 22% since I started looking. Now I'm back to the Ecotechs as that increase for an Orpheck "gen" change seems ludicrous to me.

24x24x84 tank. Height is no issue as the tank is flush to wall mounted with the tank in another room, Originally was thinking I could make 5 XR15 G4 pros work on a 7 footer.

I originally wanted the budget to be around 2400 to light a mixed tank for the next several years.

Anyone have suggestions on whether 5 15's will suffice vs 30s or the overpriced Orphecks?

Jacked Reefer · Jan 13, 2019

Are you set on Orphecks or Radions? Reefbreeders has nice panel style lights that would worked well. You could probably do 2 32 inch for a mixed reef. 5 xr15s would definitely work but shadowing may become an issue.

Titleist · Jan 13, 2019

Actually the first choice was Ecotech for Apex control and their web interface, plus coral lab presets. Orphecks just because reviews seem positive although there's no apex control for them. If I went with 6 15's I'd be at 2400 but I'm not sure how well the front to back of the tank would be lit properly.

Never looked at any other makers as it seems like these two seem to get the most attention and review. I'll check out the reefbreeders now...

Jacked Reefer · Jan 13, 2019

Titleist said:
If I went with 6 15's I'd be at 2400 but I'm not sure how well the front to back of the tank would be lit properly.

.

Unless it’s gonna be a frag tank corals won’t be touching both the front and back glass. Just line the lights up with your rockwork and you’ll be golden.