What light would you use on this tank?

[microbat]

I have just started cycling a 30gal tank (or at least I was told it was, it's a bowfront - 24.4l, 51.4d, 16.1h) which I calculate to be closer to 26g
Anyhoo, what lighting would you use for this? I will need to change out the 2x20w T8 currently in the hood, but not sure what to go with?
Any ideas are greatly appreciated
Would like to add soft and hard corals, possibly an bubble head or long tentacle anemone, looking at just adding a pair of clownfish and a couple of ornamental type crabs, shrimp, etc
Thanks

 

[king_neptune]

LED's
Make one, should cost you about $200-250. A single array for a 30g would be relitivly cheap in comparison to other LEDs.
Yes its pricey, but consider you only need to replace the bulbs once every 10 years. And you can build it yourself.

 

[microbat]

Thank you, what type of LED's? How many overall watts? Do they need to be specially designed for marine or is the white/blue colour enough for spectrum? I work at an electrical wholesaler so I can get all the materials, but wasn't sure about the spectrum
Thanks

 

[nycbob]

led lighting is the future. not only does it light up the whole tank, but its very energy efficient. take a look at the powerbrite system. over a 30 gallon, u will need at least 3 modules. stick with the 10k led system, since the actinic is mostly for visual effect. another option is 4 bulbs t5 or a 150w mh.

 

[wangotango]

Originally Posted by microbat
http:///forum/post/3205209
Thank you, what type of LED's? How many overall watts? Do they need to be specially designed for marine or is the white/blue colour enough for spectrum? I work at an electrical wholesaler so I can get all the materials, but wasn't sure about the spectrum
Thanks
There is a lot of info on some of the other big forums out there. Google search "DIY Aquarium LED projects" and you should find them.
Most people are using the 3w CREE XR-E LEDs for their systems. If you check out rapidled.com you can get an idea of cost. Most people are using one LED per about 10-20sq inches of tank surface.
-Justin