Im cycling thru a 75 start up which is to be a mixed reef. My budget on lighting is a grand at the most and preferedly less. So many brands now. Popbloom etc etc...any suggestions?
For budget options: Noopsyche, Quanta, and Reefbrite.
For pricier options: AI blades (start with two and add a third down the road), or reefi.
For expensive: Kesil a360x + reef brite strips. This is slightly above your budget.
I have heard good things about the reef flare lights too. Two 80w lights could start you off and you could upgrade later if needed. Their led bars are also relatively cheap and would blanket the tank.