200W Evolution LED vs Orphek and Radion

[Yaouch]

I just purchased this monster 200w Evolution LED at MAX, been doing alot of research and reviews on this light. I suppose that this is the best light for a very reasonable price. It retails at $499 but I spent another $120 for a 48" mounting legs, total cost $620 which is going to power my 48" frag tank. Its 2W per led @ 100 led, 50white/50blue fully dimmable. I read that the testing PAR was very good, high par for a non name brand light compare to radion or orphek, which retails at $750. I would like to know if any members own one of these, pls let me know what you think and how well does it grow corals.... The panel is 24" long and I need the lighting to spread out to 48", of corse the sales guy wanted to sell me 2x 150w panel which I think its way too much light for a 40gal frag. Im still waiting a few more days before I setup my tank, but im very excited.... looking forward in how well the light will preform.

 

[ReefLEDLights]

Yaouch

Its hard to compare a Radion or Orphek to a Chinese fixture. The Chinese fixtures vary in quality and generally use more less expensive LEDs to achieve similar results at a lower cost. Manufacturers like Eshine and Cidley use the least expensive components they can.

Be careful on PAR comparisons. Some manufacturers under drive their LEDs to achieve higher efficiency and less heat. Others push the limit knowing that the mean failure will be after the two year warranty. A 160 watt Cree XP/T fixture with wide optics will produce over 400 PAR at 30" while being under driven by 30%.

2 watt LEDs generally generate a little more heat and are not as efficient as the Cree XP, XT and XM series of LEDs. Also the Cree LEDs in the Radion are rated for 50,000 hours (11 years).

That said given its price and performance you will be happy with the coral growth and operating costs vs the cost of running T5s or MHs.

Bill

 

[Yaouch]

Thanks Bill, guess I have to try them out and see...

 

[CookieJar]

I saw them @ MAX & pulled the trigger on a 150W. I've had Evolution's before and been happy with the price/ performance. I haven't used Radions or Orpheks but I bet you'll be happy with the 200w Evo, especially since it's dimmable & quiet so I don't think you can go wrong here.

 

[Yaouch]

I just set it up and it looks awesome.... The panel is 24"' and the mounting legs are 30" tall, the coverage on it extends wider then 48".... I'll post some pics in a few...