Lighting Recommendation for IM 40L

pocketsand

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Hi,

Wanted to get opinions on lighting for an IM 40L. It is roughly 35'' long, 12'' Deep, 19'' wide. I like the idea of a bar but Orphek and AI both have disadvantage; Orphek doesn't have one that hits the right length and I question if the AI Grow is gonna have the spectrum/look I want and I understand it isn't super customizable (i.e. more blue if we want it).

I have access to some used A500X's (can get two for $600), obviously overkill but worth considering I suppose. I am open to all suggestions. I want to be able to keep everything (from SPS to zoas), it's my second tank (this is for my office) and trying to keep light spillage down would be nice (hence the Blade consideration) but it's not something I going to give up capability for.

Thanks!
 

mypocketreef

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Hi,

Wanted to get opinions on lighting for an IM 40L. It is roughly 35'' long, 12'' Deep, 19'' wide. I like the idea of a bar but Orphek and AI both have disadvantage; Orphek doesn't have one that hits the right length and I question if the AI Grow is gonna have the spectrum/look I want and I understand it isn't super customizable (i.e. more blue if we want it).

I have access to some used A500X's (can get two for $600), obviously overkill but worth considering I suppose. I am open to all suggestions. I want to be able to keep everything (from SPS to zoas), it's my second tank (this is for my office) and trying to keep light spillage down would be nice (hence the Blade consideration) but it's not something I going to give up capability for.

Thanks!
Personally, I really like AI and I believe 40L is roughly 10 gallons? I think an AI blade would be nice, and I have found them very customizable. If you are concerned about light spillage, I know there are "visors" that can keep the light going downward.
 
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pocketsand

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Thanks for the reply. The 40L is actually 40 gallons, so it may be right on the line of one blade being enough?
 

mypocketreef

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Thanks for the reply. The 40L is actually 40 gallons, so it may be right on the line of one blade being enough?
Oh, my bad. Yes, sounds great!
Since you want mixed reef, it would also give you the ability to have less light around the edges with just one. I’ve seen an lps tank with one blade for a 60 gallon, and it worked great!
 

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