Lights for a deep tank

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ancientcityrrt

AC Members
Oct 2, 2016
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0
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Port Richey, FL
What are good options for at least good medium lighting for a tank 30" deep? Probably 25-26 counting substrate, etc. Low tech at first, maybe a decent CO2 system later. Most likely going to be a South American tank...
 

dougall

...
Mar 29, 2005
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It depends what you want to do with it... assuming growing plants, what do you have your eyes on?

I would probably say LED with optics providing a lower disbursement angle would be your best bet.

for comparison, I have a Finnex Ray2, maybe 20" above substrate, I would say it's low light, maybe low-medium. so 2 of them might work, but I would look toward something with better optics, maybe custom.

The footprint of the tank may be a consideration, for something squarish, a kessil might be a good option.
 

ancientcityrrt

AC Members
Oct 2, 2016
5
0
1
58
Port Richey, FL
It depends what you want to do with it... assuming growing plants, what do you have your eyes on?

I would probably say LED with optics providing a lower disbursement angle would be your best bet.

for comparison, I have a Finnex Ray2, maybe 20" above substrate, I would say it's low light, maybe low-medium. so 2 of them might work, but I would look toward something with better optics, maybe custom.

The footprint of the tank may be a consideration, for something squarish, a kessil might be a good option.
It's a 150 gallon 48X24X30, probably going with swords,crypts, java fern, etc.
 

Gregg

AC Members
Oct 29, 2013
86
5
8
California
If you are looking top notch with a long warranty 5 years, I would suggest the AquaRay GroBeam and/or GroBeam Colour Plus

These have excellent light spread and good penetration and are simply a well made light with a water proof rating that is better than others.

If cost is an issue, rather than lower cost LEDs, I would suggest the lessor known, but higher output SHO lights. These actually outperform many of the lower cost LEDs and are more reliable and cost effective.

Resources:
http://www.americanaquariumproducts.com/LEDLights.html

http://www.americanaquariumproducts.com/PowerCompact.html
 

FreshyFresh

Global Moderator
Staff member
Jan 11, 2013
5,075
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West Falls NY
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Joel
I loves my Current USA Satellite + LEDs.. I have a pair on my tank in my sig.
Agreed!

I've had a 48-60" Current Satellite+ over my 55g with plants for 5-6 weeks now. Basic stuff; Anubia, java fern, an amazon sword and crypts. All doing well.
 
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