Suggestions? Radion Pro for 50G "Long"

Mark SF · 02/07/2013, 04:37 PM

Upgrading from a nano to a 50G Long CAD lights rimless tank.

I have had several individuals' input about the coverage that one Radion Pro will provide for this tank and they are 50/50. Some say it will be great, others think I need two of these units. Thus, I am looking for Reef Centrals infinite wisdom and those of you who have experience with these LEDs.

Dimension: 36" x 18" x 18" w/ Center Built in Overflow
link: http://www.cadlights.com/index.php?m...roducts_id=223

Goal with aquarium: SPS, Zoa, Acan and Chalice tank. I am ordering Vida Rocks from Cerameco with a custom build to meet this goal.

My question: Will a single Radion be sufficient to provide ample lighting across the tank's dimensions? These are pricey units, and I don't want to get into a debate about price/value of these units as I believe I will be happy with the Radion, I just want to be sure I am making the right decision with purchasing a single unit. If in fact it won't meet my expectations, then I will consider something different as two of these units may push me out of my budget!

My hope: That there won't be a large amount of shading toward the ends, while some shading won't be too much of an issue, I really don't want it to be noticeable. I do plan on taking advantage of the lower PAR values at the ends of the aquarium for low light corals such as zoas and mushrooms, maybe even a few lower light SPS. I am asking in terms of the "look" what your opinions are in regards to a single Radion pendant. Ecotech's website doesn't provide a "recommended" footprint of these units. I think I will call the company for their input as well.

I also understand the higher I place the unit, the more light spread there will be but I still need strong PAR values for my desired SPS build. Any thoughts here?

Look forward to your responses!

-Mark

reefboy12 · 02/07/2013, 06:19 PM

I run a radion w/ tir lenses on a 36" 18" 22" maxed @ 75% 18k peak....12" above water. I keep SPS from 3" to 12" below water. I think spread is perfect...I can see beams of light 2/3 up the sides. IMO..get a pro.

Ron

Mark SF · 02/07/2013, 08:39 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by reefboy12

I run a radion w/ tir lenses on a 36" 18" 22" maxed @ 75% 18k peak....12" above water. I keep SPS from 3" to 12" below water. I think spread is perfect...I can see beams of light 2/3 up the sides. IMO..get a pro.

Ron

Ron,

Excellent. I have the Pro on order but it hasn't shipped out with my aquarium package yet. I still have time to change the order but thanks for the input, this is reassuring.

Any FTS of your tank if you don't mind?

02/07/2013, 04:37 PM	#1
Mark SF Registered Member Join Date: Jan 2013 Location: San Francisco, CA Posts: 357	Suggestions? Radion Pro for 50G "Long" Upgrading from a nano to a 50G Long CAD lights rimless tank. I have had several individuals' input about the coverage that one Radion Pro will provide for this tank and they are 50/50. Some say it will be great, others think I need two of these units. Thus, I am looking for Reef Centrals infinite wisdom and those of you who have experience with these LEDs. Dimension: 36" x 18" x 18" w/ Center Built in Overflow link: http://www.cadlights.com/index.php?m...roducts_id=223 Goal with aquarium: SPS, Zoa, Acan and Chalice tank. I am ordering Vida Rocks from Cerameco with a custom build to meet this goal. My question: Will a single Radion be sufficient to provide ample lighting across the tank's dimensions? These are pricey units, and I don't want to get into a debate about price/value of these units as I believe I will be happy with the Radion, I just want to be sure I am making the right decision with purchasing a single unit. If in fact it won't meet my expectations, then I will consider something different as two of these units may push me out of my budget! My hope: That there won't be a large amount of shading toward the ends, while some shading won't be too much of an issue, I really don't want it to be noticeable. I do plan on taking advantage of the lower PAR values at the ends of the aquarium for low light corals such as zoas and mushrooms, maybe even a few lower light SPS. I am asking in terms of the "look" what your opinions are in regards to a single Radion pendant. Ecotech's website doesn't provide a "recommended" footprint of these units. I think I will call the company for their input as well. I also understand the higher I place the unit, the more light spread there will be but I still need strong PAR values for my desired SPS build. Any thoughts here? Look forward to your responses! -Mark

02/07/2013, 06:19 PM	#2
reefboy12 Registered Member Join Date: May 2004 Posts: 218	Pro I run a radion w/ tir lenses on a 36" 18" 22" maxed @ 75% 18k peak....12" above water. I keep SPS from 3" to 12" below water. I think spread is perfect...I can see beams of light 2/3 up the sides. IMO..get a pro. Ron