Mixed reef lighting options

[stardust1]

I've got a 65-gallon mini reef in the works and a Razor 420 10K on the way. What's a good power setting for this thing?

My tank's around 25 inches deep, and I'm planning to mix it up with inverts - low-light LPS, a couple giant clams, the works. I'm thinking start with half power, add the low-light stuff first, then gradually crank it up and bring in the high-light items later. The blue and white channels are adjustable, so that's a plus. Any thoughts on this approach? How quickly can corals adapt, anyway? Should I be looking at something like 50% power to start, then 60% the next month, and so on, or take it even slower?

[Aurorae8]

I'm just starting out with corals myself, but from what I've learned so far, your plan sounds like a solid approach. When introducing corals to a new tank, adjusting the light is manageable, but when adding new corals to an established tank, it's often better to start them at the bottom and gradually move them up every week or so until you reach the desired position. I've also been told that the rate at which you increase the light is about right - a gradual increase to avoid shocking the corals. I'm actually picking up my LED lights on Friday and planning to grab some coral frags at a swap on Saturday morning.

[felinxo]

Getting a feel for the coral's existing lighting conditions is key when buying. Knowing the type and intensity they're currently under helps a lot. Some corals go straight to their permanent spot, while others need time to adjust. As for your specific Razor lighting questions, I'm sure someone with experience can offer more tailored advice. Generally, once corals are acclimated, they tend to adapt to whatever lighting you provide, making it hard to fully replicate the sun's effects.