Suggestions on new tank lighting

jdpx88 · Feb 19, 2011

Well posted this up on couple boards but hardly any response but. I'm gonna start a new build and need some opinions on lighting the tank it will be 30x18x18. I was planning on doing leds, But i'm stuck so far I'm thinking about 3 options either a 150w MH directly in the middle with maybe 4xt5ho supp next to it. Next option is 1 AI sol blue module but would the light be enough to spread the 30" length? Final option is doing a DIY LED build in a custom canopy how much leds would i need for great coverage and nice 14k-20k look. The tank will be rimless and i really want a clean look to it.

MimicOcto8 · Feb 19, 2011

ATI T5s all the way. i posted a couple pix on here what they did for my tank. you should look that post up. LEDs are my second pic. good luck man.

Alattner · Feb 19, 2011

jdpx88 said:
Well posted this up on couple boards but hardly any response but. I'm gonna start a new build and need some opinions on lighting the tank it will be 30x18x18. I was planning on doing leds, But i'm stuck so far I'm thinking about 3 options either a 150w MH directly in the middle with maybe 4xt5ho supp next to it. Next option is 1 AI sol blue module but would the light be enough to spread the 30" length? Final option is doing a DIY LED build in a custom canopy how much leds would i need for great coverage and nice 14k-20k look. The tank will be rimless and i really want a clean look to it.

man go look at Mimic's tank his pictures and grow convinced me to go to try a t5 setup it looks fantastic

dougers31 · Feb 19, 2011

You could just go with a 4-6 bulb(ati?) fixture... what do you plan on keeping in there?

cmcneil · Feb 19, 2011

the ATI's are great fixtures and would fit your needs well.if you go LED's i would get a DIY kit over a fixture.i have a DIY kit from reefledlights.com (the deluxe 24 led one)and am very happy with my color and growth so far.i run 18 royal blues and 6 cool whites on dimmable drivers.