New build lighting suggestions.

[Alaska209]

I’m putting together a new build and looking for some lighting recommendations.

The tank is an Innovative Marine 30L EXT (approximately 35.4” L x 15” W x 13” H). The plan is mostly softies and LPS, but I’d like to keep the option open for SPS down the road.

Right now I’m considering purchasing another AI Prime 16HD due to me having a spare lying around, but I’m open to other options. I’ve also been considering a combination of AI blade grow and glow. Those of you running similar-sized tanks, what lights are you using?

Budget-friendly and premium recommendations are both welcome.


Thanks!

 

[rtparty]

A second Prime would work well. A couple AI Blade Grow would be great as well. You can mix 1 grow and 1 glow but they need to be mounted higher so they blend better

 

[Mr. Mojo Rising]

I used a nicrew 100 watt on my 32 gallon for years before it burnt out now I use a popbloom rl90 they both work well to grow any coral I want.

 

[Alaska209]

If I go with 2 grow and 1 glow what are the options for BOT mounting brackets?

 

[Alaska209]

A second Prime would work well. A couple AI Blade Grow would be great as well. You can mix 1 grow and 1 glow but they need to be mounted higher so they blend better

What are your thoughts on 2 radion xr15 pros g6, would that be overkill due to how shallow the tank is? I want to be able to have flexibility down the road and currently have the $ to spend.

 

[rtparty]

What are your thoughts on 2 radion xr15 pros g6, would that be overkill due to how shallow the tank is? I want to be able to have flexibility down the road and currently have the $ to spend.

They’ll definitely work. Overkill and expensive but they are great lights

 

[EricR]

If you already have an AI Prime 16HD, I'd say just adding a 2nd seems like a good plan.
I run just 2x AI Prime 16HD on a 36" (40 breeder) soft coral tank with a couple of LPS.
Doing fine and no complaints.

If you were starting with nothing, I might consider other options but since you already have one...

 

[PPBlimpy]

2 noopsyche k7 pro IV

$139 each. Will grow anything you want and perfect when you upgrade to a 4’ 90g!!

I have 2 over a 54g corner and had 5 v3s over a 7’ 210

 

[Alaska209]

Went with a second AI prime and the color variance is extremely noticeable, even with the schedule I’m running it’s noticeable. I tested it out with only royal blue on and sure enough.

 

[EricR]

Bummer. That would bug me.
Is the one on the left the new one?