210 build -what lighting?

[griffen24]

I'm in the process of pulling together a 210 6'x2'x2' and I'm not sure which way i want to go on the lighting. been thinking about the below ideas, your thoughts are welcomed.

option 1:
3 x 250MH + 2 x 4' vho for atnc

option 2:
2 x 400mh spread further with larger reflectors + 2 x 4' vho for atnc

Option 3:

2 x 250MH (one on each end) + 1 x 400MH in the middle + 2 x 4' vho for atnc

Also open to any suggestions. this is the 1st tank I've set up this large and not sure what is needed.

Live stock will be upto softies only, not brave (or budgeted) enough for SPS yet. Thanks

[Stroob]

FYI - a 6 x 2 x 2 tank is a 180 not a 210.

What does the bracing look like on top? I have 3 - 250w bulbs over mine in LB reflectors and it is plenty of light for all corals. Unless you are anticipating trouble with a center brace on light penetration no need to go to the 400 on a 24" deep tank.

A - Similar to my setup, good coverage and adequate lighting for all corals depending on reflector.

B - Excess heat and likely to have dead spots in lighting trying to cover 6 ft of tank with 2 reflectors. I upgraded from a 75 with 2 - 250s and could definitely tell the lighting was not enough coverage after going to the 180.

C - As mentioned earlier no need on the 400 in the middle unless going SPS or possibly a clam in the middle and worried about light penetrating the center brace.

I just went through the research a few months ago and went with the 3 LumenBrite reflectors on CoralVue ballasts with 250w bulbs. If you are only going softies you might be able to run a T5 setup but would limit you when (not if) you start playing with more light demanding corals.

[1swtlx]

On my 210 I'm running 2 - 250w SE Halides with 2 48" VHO supplements and there is a definate dead spot in the center of the tank. It is lit, but much dimmer than the two sides where halides are. If you go Halides you will need 3 bulbs minimum on a 6' tank IMO.

[UWUALineman]

If you are only 24'' deep 250's would be plenty. I would go with 3 pendans for SPS or 2 (If budget is of main concern) Large pendants with good spread for softies and LPS, however 3 is optimum so you are set for the future.
My current 210G is SPS, with clams so I currently run 3 400W Radiums, w/ 4 110VHO's.

[griffen24]

Stroob, your right, it's actually 72 x 24 x 29.

the tank has 3 opening/portions so to avoid shadow i will be going with 3 reflectors

I just picked up a killer deal on a Lumentarc 19 1/2" reflector with a 400W Galaxy ballast today. so it looks like i will be trying my luck with Option 3 after all. That way if i wanna try a clam or some SPS down the road I can do so. Thanks for the comments :)