Which lighting i should use for acro's

[Reefgeek911]

Hey all, I have been "out of the loop" for a LONG time (ever since my daughter was born 2 years ago), and am getting more back into the hobby. I have a 58 Gallon (36x18x24) that I'm going to keep acro's in again. The light I have on it is a Coralife HQI unit with a 150 Watt 10k bulb in it, and 2x65 pc's. It's worked great for my lps, and softies, but am not sure it will cut it for doin acro's again. I finally have the time, and the tank setup I'd like. All water Parameters test out great, but am not sure how much i need to step up with the lighting. Either way I do NOT want a canopy, I'd rather get a complete fixture. Was wondering what you guys thought I should go with. And, IF there is any way I could keep current lighting, would it work out with the acros near the top only, with some Monti's near the bottom? Any thoughts, ideas would be much appreciated. Money's not a problem, but the one light I have pretty much ruled out so far is the Solaris, as I have seen it in person, and yes it's impressive, just dont' really think it's worth qutie the $$$ I'VE GOT THE BUG AGAIN, AND DAMN IT FEELS GOOD!!!

 

[skey44]

your light will be okay for acro's mid level to top. you may wanna check out the lighting website to choose a bulb with good par, and a color you like (mostly bluer(14k) or yellower(10k) choices) phoenix is good choice for a bluer bulb with decent par. also if you wanna get something new the ati t5 system is supposed to be the jams for 36" tanks. t5 don't have the shimmer but the growth and color of acros seems good. they are also a bit more energy efficient, bulbs last longer, and they run cooler. its the big argument right now-t5vmh (remember t5s are not proven but no one ever seems to metion the countless sps corals grown under vho lighting over the years and these are on the way out of the "up to date" lighting talks) good and bad on both sides read through the lighting threads, but 36" tanks seem to be prime candidates for t5.