Light positioning

My new tank is 48x30x18. I have 4 light fixtures that will go over it.

I came up with two ways I could position them.



First seems more even.

Second has other important benefits for me:
1) In my house, 2nd method will be a lot easier/cleaner to mount
2) I believe there'll be less light bleed with 2nd method. The seating areas in my house are on both sides of the longer dimensions of the tank. Left and Right there's two 10x10 columns. I believe this will have less chance of light shining into people eyes when seated.

Think #2 will work jus as well as #1? Or am I better off with #1 for proper lighting for corals?

Thanks.

 

What kinds of lights? I would go with number 2.

 

I think it depends on your aquascaping. I would leave you options open.

 

AI Vega Color. I have AI SOL SuperBlues on my 55g.

I will do my best to create two islands. One bigger and one smaller. Both with some arches and step-like flat parts for future coral placement. Easier said than done.

Tank will be more or less viewable from all 4 sides, the stand is finished on all 4. But left and right side are partially obstructed. It's 125g 48x30x18 rimless.

 

So what's the verdict? Is there a big pro for one over other? Or are both basically ok and it's up to me?

 

You should be able to do either depending how the tank is scaped and what corals you want to keep where. Being such strong LEDs 4 in any combo should provide plenty of light to keep anything you want.

Obviously depending how they are arranged you will have different hot and cold spots for PAR readings and would scape accordingly.

Other than that its all preference, set em both up and see which one you like the look of better. If you think 4 is too much you can always PM me for an address to send one of the lights too to lighten you load