So much info on lighting for a new reefer...

vittpsu21 · Jul 6, 2025

Hey all, I have waded through what feels like endless amounts of information on almost all things while getting my introduction to the hobby. Most of it I have been able to grasp and some of it I think I will see as it goes... all of that is to say that Lighting seems to be the most diverse and across the board thing I have seen outside of live vs dead rock lol!

I know there is no one size fits all, but I would really like to get some opinions from some experienced reefers on their opinions, I am also aware that I wont need lights for quite a bit still because I will be in the early stages of the tank. All that is to say though that I would like to plan ahead where possible...I can say for certain I have no interest in t5's so I am 100% looking for LEDS. My first tank is the IM 200 EXT with dimensions of...30" x 70.9" x 21.7". I do have some limitations on on how high they can go as there is a finished ceiling above it that contains a vent, so most of my mounting options will need to be some kind of arm or something I can design off the back that then hangs over the top. I am in fact very into woodworking so if it comes to that, that part should be straight forward to me...there will be around 17 inches from the top of the tank to the brim of the drywall.

I have looked at the XR30's (the price tag is quite big and really not sure how many I would need for a tank my size), the AI Blades, and also the Kessels. Anyway, any feedback would be much appreciated, this will be a mixed reef tank with Corals of all kinds in the end I would imagine. Feedback on products + the amount you would estimate I would need over such a tank would be greatly appreciated!

Reefer Matt · Jul 6, 2025

Hello! I’d start by establishing your budget for the lights, there are many options these days that will grow coral. Then focus on what features you’re interested in, like spectrum control by wifi (app) or local controller, or just an on/off timer, etc. From NiCrew to Radion, there are a lot of choices.
Myself, I’m a Kessil guy. I don’t think they’re the best lights for the value, but I like what they do for my tanks. I just don’t like a flat looking tank, I like wavy lines of light (shimmer).

KrisReef · Jul 6, 2025

Lights are good, but what you prefer can guide your selection.

I like discounts and deals so for my fish tank I got Blades and the anemones are thriving and happy.

But have metal halide on my reef but I have enough LeD’s to light up the tank that I got for free from a guy who was exiting the hobby. I have a 3x8 frag tank for nothing from the same guy!

If I was going to purchase lEDs I would get Icon natira’s with the Lunar cycle to make a natural light cycle similar to a reef just to see if the coral will spawn on the lunar cycle cues, or not.