2x Hydra 52s, 3x 26s, 2x XR30's or 2x XR30 Pro's?

calli · 08/31/2018, 11:08 AM

This is probably a VERY talked about topic however, I understand a lot of what we do in the hobby is based on your own setup and your own goals.

My end goal is certainly a mixed reef, SPS up top and LPS mid to lower. A couple of ZOA islands as well. The tank is 80 Gallons (48x24x16), very shallow so I was hoping I could get away with less wattage. The tank is rimless with NO brace in the middle, so I imagine light fixtures can be spread the full 4 feet no blockage. I am also not running a controller at this time, possible later add-on.

QUESTIONS:

1) Do I go AI vs Radion? I am leaning AI as I don't have a controller and I would like to have better control from mobile.

If Radion; Does the PRO version make that much of a difference if I only have 16" height?

If AI; using 3 x 26s vs 2 x 52s, is the better spread more important that the bit of extra wattage the 52s have? (again 16" height tank)

alton · 08/31/2018, 01:24 PM

The additional Diodes Ecotech adds to the Pro with more UV and warm white is worth the $'s. And I have no need to ramp up and down my leds

08/31/2018, 11:08 AM	#1
calli Registered Member Join Date: Jun 2008 Location: London, Ontario Posts: 512	2x Hydra 52s, 3x 26s, 2x XR30's or 2x XR30 Pro's? This is probably a VERY talked about topic however, I understand a lot of what we do in the hobby is based on your own setup and your own goals. My end goal is certainly a mixed reef, SPS up top and LPS mid to lower. A couple of ZOA islands as well. The tank is 80 Gallons (48x24x16), very shallow so I was hoping I could get away with less wattage. The tank is rimless with NO brace in the middle, so I imagine light fixtures can be spread the full 4 feet no blockage. I am also not running a controller at this time, possible later add-on. QUESTIONS: 1) Do I go AI vs Radion? I am leaning AI as I don't have a controller and I would like to have better control from mobile. If Radion; Does the PRO version make that much of a difference if I only have 16" height? If AI; using 3 x 26s vs 2 x 52s, is the better spread more important that the bit of extra wattage the 52s have? (again 16" height tank)

08/31/2018, 01:24 PM	#2
alton Registered Member Join Date: Jan 2005 Location: Zuehl, Texas Posts: 4,460	The additional Diodes Ecotech adds to the Pro with more UV and warm white is worth the $'s. And I have no need to ramp up and down my leds