AI Hydra vs. Vega vs. Sol Blues

[Djtonton]

So I am new to LED's and dont know much about them. I have been trying to find out what the difference between all these AI units? It looks like i can get away with the Sol Blues and i know a couple of reefers here who use them and they look great! I dont have a ton of cash and i know im going to need at least 2 units for my 120. Can someone give me a quick overview of the difference pros and cons.

Thanks!

 

[Connie]

I only have experience in the Vegas. They will cover a 24" square area. I have 4 units over my 180g which is 6' long. I love them. I have a mixed reef and there has been a tremendous increase in growth in all my coral, especially SPS. The weather (Lightning) feature is useless to me. It scares the fish so I don't use it. As of right now none of the AI LEDs can be controlled with any controller other then the one they come with. I am hoping they will soon make them compatible with the Apex Controller. Other than these two things, I highly recommend them. Good luck!

 

[Djtonton]

I only have experience in the Vegas. They will cover a 24" square area. I have 4 units over my 180g which is 6' long. I love them. I have a mixed reef and there has been a tremendous increase in growth in all my coral, especially SPS. The weather (Lightning) feature is useless to me. It scares the fish so I don't use it. As of right now none of the AI LEDs can be controlled with any controller other then the one they come with. I am hoping they will soon make them compatible with the Apex Controller. Other than these two things, I highly recommend them. Good luck!

Thanks for the insight for some reason i thought you could control those units with apex units hummm interested. Well time to save up some money those vegas arnt cheap lol

 

[dunc101]

The Hydra or Vega's would be what I would consider if you are considering those 3. The AI Sol's use only royal blue, blue and cool whites. Granted, people have grown some great SPS tanks with the Sol's but many many many people gripe at the color they get from them and the intensity they provide. The consensus now is to use a much broader/fuller spectrum of LED's which the Hydra and Vega's use (Violets 400-420nm, reds (600-660nm), cyan, etc.). Plus the sols have very narrow optics by default.
If you are looking for good budget fixtures, consider looking at the Maxspect Razors for a little bit cheaper price than the Vega's with also a 'fuller' spectrum (assuming your 120 is 48 inches long, 2 of the 120 watt units would serve you well). You should also consider looking at the reefbreeder full spectrum lights as I have heard great stuff out of them as well (they are also a lot cheaper than the Vega's/Hydras although not as aesthetically pleasing imo but will definitely get the job done).
I use 2 of the 120 watt Maxspect Razors over my 90 and have had good results (using for the last 8 months).

 

[Djtonton]

thanks alot dunc ill have to look up thos maxspect razors.