Recommended Lighting for a 55 gallon

[j-ws6]

A little project I'm working on: I've got a AGA 55 gallon with a DIY 20H Sump ready to be set up. My idea is just a ton of live rock, various fish (8 max.), some xenia, zooanthids, etc. I don't really want to get into hard corals yet. I'm wondering what kind of lights and how much wattage one would recommend for the 55 without burning too big of a hole in my wallet. I'm still a college kid.
Anyone?
Thanks!
J-WS6

 

[tx reef]

If you only plan on keeping soft corals and LPS and do not want to spend a lot, then get power compacts. If you want to keep more light demanding corals in the future you will need to upgrade lighting.
If you don't mind spending a little more, you could go with T5s and never have to upgrade....if you get these be sure to get the fixtures with individual reflectors.

 

[j-ws6]

links? pictures? prices?

 

[gwh57]

I have DIY t5s on my 55 and they work well. Workhorse ballast and good endcaps is all you need.

 

[j-ws6]

sounds good...but where are you getting these parts and how much wattage are you running??

 

[gwh57]

Originally Posted by J-WS6
sounds good...but where are you getting these parts and how much wattage are you running??
My lfs gave me a broke t5 fixture with no ballast (I have spent lots of $ there). I ordered a workhorse from somewhere??? and the wiring is easy. I have 2 X 40w of double overdriven 50/50 bulbs (about 120w total) and 2 x 54w HO t5s. I also have 4 standard based 50/50 screw in bulbs (about 100w total) in the middle of my moonlights. I have a mixed tank with plenty of light.