What To Do With Lighting

[Jason Bell]

So here it goes, tank is 4' x 24" x 24" I have about 3" of sand.

I have a 4' 4 bulb T5 with 2 x 250MH and moon lights. 2 switches control the T5's and 2 switches control the fans and moon lights, MH run on 2 ballasts, so another 2 plugs. I don't want multiple timers, would be an eyesore and a mess if needing to change things around. So perhaps a basic controller that can time all 6 outlets. Neptune perhaps, basic unit $500 or so? I have not run T5 and MH for years, only LED, but this fixture came with the system.

Currently I have 3 AI Prime HD and could purchase another for $300 or so. That would give me 4 and would space them over the tank. Full controls, no need for extras. I don't keep SPS, just softies, some LPS and zoas. Currently all corals are loving the light and by no means do I have them run very high.

So anyone else with that size tank? Similar lighting? With the new setup I have already spent plenty on new equipment, so I don't want to get too crazy.

Thank you in advance for your input.

 

[TORX]

I would run that AI Prime HD. 3 would work, 4 would be better. My only concern would be the front to back coverage and shadows from their smaller clusters. I have the same light on my nano right now but it isn't 24". Honestly you will spend the difference in less then a year with the bulb replacements and hydro of the T5 and MH combo. It is really up to you. The T5 MH combo is a proven method of growing great coral with great color, but it comes at an additional upkeep cost.

There isn't a controller out there for less the $500 unless you are getting a used Classic Apex. The cheapest one is the ApexEL and it is $650+tx

 

[TORX]

I would run that AI Prime HD. 3 would work, 4 would be better. My only concern would be the front to back coverage and shadows from their smaller clusters. I have the same light on my nano right now but it isn't 24". Honestly you will spend the difference in less then a year with the bulb replacements and hydro of the T5 and MH combo. It is really up to you. The T5 MH combo is a proven method of growing great coral with great color, but it comes at an additional upkeep cost.

There isn't a controller out there for less the $500 unless you are getting a used Classic Apex. The cheapest one is the ApexEL and it is $650+tx

 

[Jason Bell]

Thank you Torx for the reply, looks like the primes it will be and to be honest I was kind of hoping someone would suggest that. Easy to setup and that's what a majority of my coral are under now.

I'm hoping by the end of the week to finally get some water in the new tank.