Lighting options for a 140G mixed reef

[truebeliever71]

I'm upgrading my 54G corner bowfront to a 140G 5ft x 30 x 18 acrylic tank. My current tank has a mix of softies, LPS and SPS corals. I have about $400 that I can spend. I'm all for the DIY thing so I know I can save money going that route.

My problem is that my head is spinning with all the options out there. I know I'm going to loose some light because of the acrylic tank design and whole closed top thing. I'm thinking of the idea of doing a xenon (projector less)/LED combo.

Any thoughts and input would be greatly appreciated.

[200mfromocean]

I would like to suggest some 5' T5 retros, but it would help if you told us what you are trying to accomplish.

[ben1]

invest in LED:)

[truebeliever71]

The goal is to balance initial cost with low operating cost to create a system that will suppport a variety of life.

[jimnrose]

The shallow depth (18") is a good start relating to lowering the need for high intensity lighting. I'm a newbie who just finished a 125g (72"x24"x17") & went wity LED's but the lghting (LED, drivers, power supplies, heat sinks) will cost around $400. The advantage is long life, low operaing power, lower heat load and flexibility on light intensity. The led's would be organized into circuits that can be controlled at selective current levels and timing sequences. Lots of options but if you don't have some electronic or optical experience it will be a challange. This forum has excellent technical support to help you thru the maze. Jim

[truebeliever71]

Jim,

the tank is 30 in. Tall, so it is my understanding that I would need more powerful Leds to penetrate it.

[galoot]

you should state your tank dim's in LxWxH to avoid confussion. I thought it was only 18 high too. That being said, those maxspect led fixtures with the 30w bulbs look interesting.