Go with t-5 or t-8 much much cheaper. Especially on the small end. I suggest not even getting a ballast setup if you are comfortable with some wiring and making a hood.
Go to Home Depot get three or four of the aquarium lights. (you may have to look around or even order more. They're made by GE and are UL tested for this use. Take the casing off of the lights, and there you are, ballasts to make your tank light! This should cost you <100-150 depending on the tank.
On a 30gal, two should be enough for mushrooms and most simple soft coral (not leathers). Three to four should be enough to grow LPS coral for much cheaper than the other options.
For SPS, leathers, and clams you need to go halide, probably over 250W, upward of $500.
I should be making a DIY for the light soon. W/ pics.
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