Looking to upgrade need advice

[Hal 9000]

Tank Dimensions: 36 long 16 wide 12 high

Current lighting: 16" Chinese box

I'm not really happy with the current setup. The light isn't controllable and for me to get any decent coloration I end up nuking my corals. I'm able to get decent reds but that's about it everything else is really washed out. The most demanding thing I plan on keeping at this point is Montipora. I've got a tiny arco frag that's very slowly growing but keeping it going nukes everything else. I'm looking for something (or a pair of somethings) that is controllable (apex or on board) that will give me decent coloration and growth. I was able to go to MACNA last year and was impressed with the Kessil's and AI lights. My LFS has the new Nano Razor over their demo drop off tank which seems to give OK color but seems a bit dim over that much space.

Thanks for the help!

 

[saltyfilmfolks]

A par meter and good research on the specs of a light is important. A lux meter will help with testing and checking intensity, esp in acclimation. Our eyes are soooo good at what they do they are not to be trusted.
with the LUX app or the meter($15 meter preferred) you can walk in and know what you are buying as far as intensity and assume(calculate) Par from there.
A great light with known great spectrum with enough intensity is a good way to go.IMO

That being said, check the specs again on the Nano razor. I dont like the Kessels purely due to the lack of numbers and specs. Great user reviews though. If anyone has the specs, Id love them.

 

[Jimbo662]

I just put a pair of AI Primes over a tank with similar dimensions. While they're not controllable with my apex they do have their own app and built in wifi where you can control them with a computer or your phone.