Lighting for a 30g with SPS.

[wickedfrags]

I have seen these in action at the LFS. Not sure I would recommend them...this light is very small, maybe only 8" across and would really only act as a spotlight on a 30" tank. Would be good for a refugium that required metal halide. Have you considered this one?

http://www.jlaquatics.com/product/sl...C+4+x+24W.html

If this is not for you, I would consider trying to gind a single 250W or 400W pendant used - they are often at least 4-8 inches wider and would provide you much better coverage.

What are you planning for actinics if you go with a single pendant? Gotta love the actincs.

Originally Posted by Stab_Master_Arson

Thanks for all of your input guys. I did some thinking on the wattage, heat etc and my focus as turned to this item I found at J&L

Coralife AquaLight Pro Metal Halide HQI Clamp-On Pendant - 1 x 150W

It's height is somewhat adjustable, clamps on easy and you can add more if you chose. i could buy 3 of these bad boys for the price of a 250w MH & PC canopy by Hamilton or PFO.

One more question remains though.. Is the intensity and effectiveness of multiple lamps be different (better/not better) than one big lamp?

[Stab_Master_Arson]

Originally Posted by wickedfrags.com

I have seen these in action at the LFS. Not sure I would recommend them...this light is very small, maybe only 8" across and would really only act as a spotlight on a 30" tank. Would be good for a refugium that required metal halide. Have you considered this one?

http://www.jlaquatics.com/product/sl...C+4+x+24W.html

If this is not for you, I would consider trying to gind a single 250W or 400W pendant used - they are often at least 4-8 inches wider and would provide you much better coverage.

What are you planning for actinics if you go with a single pendant? Gotta love the actincs.

Alright wickedfrags, I think you sold me. 96 watts just didn't seem like much light but from what I have been reading, the efficiency and "PAR" makes a light. I might go with the 36" one instead though

http://www.jlaquatics.com/product/sl...C+4+x+39W.html

It will add a little extra power and leave overhang so I can rest it across my tank rim, and do away with the cheap plastic canopy 65w pc is on. I will have to see when I go to J&L on Saturday.


What kind of SPS do you think this will support? Monti etc?