Meridian 24 edge bundle or meridian 11 edge bundle

[Reefuzz]

I have an IM 50 EXT (30” L x 23.6” W x 16.1” H) and planning a mixed reef with LPS and SPS. I’m trying to decide which Meridian bundle will give me the best overall coverage and flexibility long term.

I’m very much a buy once, cry once type, so I don’t want to undershoot and regret it later, but I also don’t want to go unnecessarily overkill. With the wider footprint of this tank, even light spread is a big consideration.

For those with experience:
• Would the 24” Meridian bundle be too much for this footprint?
• Or would the 11” bundle be pushing it in terms of coverage and SPS-friendly PAR toward the edges?

 

[Reefuzz]

Bump

 

[Tahoe61]

I have the Meridian 11, no Edge on my 25 lagoon. It's my opinion you should go with the 24. The Meridian 11 is perfect for mine 24×24, but you would definitely be pushing it on a 50 gallon.

 

[MegabiteOG]

I'd do the 24". That would give you full coverage everywhere and you can adjust the lights down to where you need it. Also, if you go bigger (48" next logical step) you'd just need to throw another 24 on there.

I have two 24's and an 11' on my 6' tank.

 

[Reefuzz]

Thanks for the replies! I was leaning towards the 24. I might just get the fixture first and then add the edge bars later.

 

[MegabiteOG]

Thanks for the replies! I was leaning towards the 24. I might just get the fixture first and then add the edge bars later.

You will be fine without the edge bars for the tank. Good luck! Are you getting the OG or Shallow Reef (14k)?

 

[Reefuzz]

Thanks for the replies! I was leaning towards the 24. I might just get the fixture first and then add the edge bars later.

You will be fine without the edge bars for the tank. Good luck! Are you getting the OG or Shallow Reef (14k)?

I’m thinking of doing the shallow reef because the tanks only 16inches deep and I like the look of more whites.

 

[X-37B]

You won't need more than the 24.
I have the same system running 3 xr15's.
I run Photons on 2 other system and 2 edge on my new halide system.
I could easily replace the 3 xr15's with one 24 and not need anything else.