Vega for new 56g

u1tranova · Jan 26, 2014

I'm getting back into the hobby and setting up a new 56g tank that is 30wide, 18 deep, and 25 tall. I've got all my equipment except lights. I'm really liking what I hear and have researched about the Ai vega LEDs. My question is, would 1 vega be adequate for my tank? I will have a 1-2 inch sandbed and there is a corner overflow box in the left side. Two things that concern me are the height of the aquarium(25") and the center brace that is about 2" wide. Will the brace and height be a problem for the vega?

Reefing Madness · Jan 26, 2014

The brace will be the problem, so you'll need 2 units, one on either side of the brace. If you were to use just one unit you would have shadows on boths sides anyways, so its better. The depth will be fine.

KoleTang · Jan 26, 2014

Even without a brace, a 3' tank will need two LEDs. They usually cover a 2x2 area each. With one you'll get dark spots on the left and right (and in your case the middle with the brace).

u1tranova · Jan 27, 2014

In that case, would the hydra or sole be suitable for the depth? If I need two I need to go a lil on the lower price side.

KoleTang · Jan 27, 2014

u1tranova said:
In that case, would the hydra or sole be suitable for the depth? If I need two I need to go a lil on the lower price side.

The hydra and Sol are the same price now. I had the Sol once and it didn't work out (It only uses cool white LEDs so not enough spectrum for SPS. I know several other people who have had the same problem). I'd go with the Hydra.

Aquarium LED Lighting and Accessories