Aqueon Evolve 8 - Lighting Options

[seuadr]

So, i am examining some options in regards to upgrading my lights, and wanted to make sure that i am understanding things correctly.

my tank is 12X12X9. i have 2.5-3 inches of substrate in there, so i am figuring around 9-10 inches from the top to substrate. given that most of the "legs" for these lights are an inch or so, i'm think that 12" to substrate is probably a good middle ground assumption

I am currently looking at:

Finnex fugeray 12"
12" fixture: 62 PAR @ 6", 25 PAR @ 12", 13 PAR @ 18"

I like the form factor of this light, but the PAR at substrate is only 25, which is if i am understanding properly low/medium light.

I also saw last night:

coralife 12" t-5

this one has a pair of bulbs, the stock one claims 6 watts each, but the box at the LFS says 2/24w on it.

i have not had any luck finding PAR data for it on here or by google, but i could have just missed it.

anyone have the second light? I would like to be solidly in medium territory on this tank and i like the idea that (possibly) the t-5 fixture might accept 12w or 24w bulbs (i need to re-examine the box to get electrical specifics, or to see if the packaging is just being very optimistic)

[seuadr]

nobody has used the aqualite mini?

[nicholz]

I got an led bulb from home depot and a clamp light and I have crypts going crazy and star grass and an anubia both doing well also. Its a day bright ~6000k bulb - very little algae except on rocks (shrimp and snails constantly munching)

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[PRSRocker3390]

I use a Fugeray 12" on my Evolve 8 and am growing a dense beautiful HC carpet. I think the light is great for an Evolve 8. I also don't use the top on the Evolve since it cuts down on light, it tends to gather condensation rather well. I have a journal with pics for reference.

[seuadr]

thanks for the update!