It seems that alk, ca, nitrates, phosphates and lights all combine for a healthy tank full of sps. More intense lights with higher alk, higher nitrates and phosphates and the reverse with less intense lights have been suggested but nothing really proves that . I believe tanks find their happy zone and are unique upon themselves. Some of the factors that provide uniqueness are likely DOC's (dissolved organic compounds) and bacteria both total amount and perhaps types or strains.
As to specifics of the op, ideally you want salinity, alk, nitrates and phosphates in a pretty narrow range. The key word is stability. It really requires frequent and consistent testing. Testing is a pain and test kits are hobbyist grade and questionably reliable and accurate. But test kits and observation is the best we have. I like Hanna checkers for alk and ultr low phosphorous. Salifert for nitrates or Red Sea pro. Buy a good refractometer like Veegee and make sure you purchase a calibrating standard solution (35ppt) for it. An ATO helps with keeping salinity dialed in. A doser or calcium reactor helps with alk and calcium. Chiller, fan and heater for temperature control. Adequate pumps for flow, sps need good flow. Lights and a lighting schedule that will provide adequate light without frying corals. Want to make sure you are also using good RO/DI water.