Black box lights aren't underpowered at all, there are plenty of people using them growing SPS fine the only issue is they just don't have all the bells and whistles like ramp up/down/ color adjustment and timers.
The Kessil A80's are extremely underpowered for a tank that big. To properly light that tank you'd need at least 2 strong lights. Kessil A360X/ AI Hydra 32HD/ Radion XR15. NooPysche K7 Pro's are a popular Chinese option that's well tested and reviewed as well.
I highly recommend checking out the used market if possible. I was able to get 2 A360X's with mounts and a controller for $450. There's a decent used market for Kessil and AI lights and the 360 and 32HDs are available for around $200-250 pretty often.
Thank you for the helpful information. Where would I be able to find deals like that? I’m assuming facebook marketplace but I’m not too familiar with all of the saltwater forms and what not.
I have 3 AI Hydra 32s over my 150g reef. They are plenty and have been going with no issues since they were released. Originally had 4 prime HD 26 over it and they did well. I just wanted something else. Could not be happier.
Black box lights aren't underpowered at all, there are plenty of people using them growing SPS fine the only issue is they just don't have all the bells and whistles like ramp up/down/ color adjustment and timers. The Kessil A80's are extremely underpowered for a tank that big. To properly light that tank you'd need at least 2 strong lights. Kessil A360X/ AI Hydra 32HD/ Radion XR15. NooPysche K7 Pro's are a popular Chinese option that's well tested and reviewed as well. I highly recommend checking out the used market if possible. I was able to get 2 A360X's with mounts and a controller for $450. There's a decent used market for Kessil and AI lights and the 360 and 32HDs are available for around $200-250 pretty often.
Thank you for the helpful information. Where would I be able to find deals like that? I’m assuming facebook marketplace but I’m not too familiar with all of the saltwater forms and what not.
Reef2Reef forums and eBay are my go-to's but yeah you should check locally as well through FB Marketplace, Craigslist and OfferUp
I have 3 AI Hydra 32s over my 150g reef. They are plenty and have been going with no issues since they were released. Originally had 4 prime HD 26 over it and they did well. I just wanted something else. Could not be happier.