AI Primex2 to a Hydra64?

[MichaelReefer]

I am thinking about moving from two AI Prime HDs, to a Hydra 64 on my Reefer 250. Would it have enough spread if placed in the middle to cover the entire tank? Or would I be better with two 26s?

Appreciate any advice!

 

[MichaelReefer]

BUMP

 

[DaneGer21]

Is there a reason for the upgrade?

 

[MERKEY]

I would add 2 or 4 more AI primes.

It will give you a better spread as you can distance the pucks.

Unless you get 2 64's ))

 

[MichaelReefer]

Is there a reason for the upgrade?

I get some shading along the very outside of the tank, like it just barely reaches the edges of the tank. Also, was thinking about expanding my coral options a bit and it seems like I will need at least 26s for this?

 

[MERKEY]

I get some shading along the very outside of the tank, like it just barely reaches the edges of the tank. Also, was thinking about expanding my coral options a bit and it seems like I will need at least 26s for this?

Then I would definitely get more primes to cover the areas.

Why not just get a 64 and put it in the middle and keep the primes spaced on the edges?

 

[DaneGer21]

I use 4-26hds over my 60x36x24. While also using the t5 hybrid fixture. I have always had good luck with mine. Never any issues.

 

[DaneGer21]

Could you raise your current lights? as well as turn up the output per channel?

If you’re set on new lights and a budget, why not find a few used 26hds, and a hybrid fixture.

 

[MichaelReefer]

Could you raise your current lights? as well as turn up the output per channel?

If you’re set on new lights and a budget, why not find a few used 26hds, and a hybrid fixture.

I could raise them but wouldn't I lose even more PAR? I have them maxed out right now.

I just didn't know if it would be as simple as selling the Primes, getting 300, then throwing 300 more and get two 26s.

 

[DaneGer21]

I could raise them but wouldn't I lose even more PAR?

I take it you have them maxed out for the given spectrum your running?

If so, then disregard the previous suggestion. If not, then raise the lights and raise your settings.

 

[MichaelReefer]

I take it you have them maxed out for the given spectrum your running?

Correct. Just trying to figure out if I will get drastic benefits of growth also if I move to 26s? Not to mention if it opens up my options for coral.

 

[MERKEY]

I could raise them but wouldn't I lose even more PAR?

I just didn't know if it would be as simple as selling the Primes, getting 300, then throwing 300 more and get two 26s.

Correct. Just trying to figure out if I will get drastic benefits of growth also if I move to 26s? Not to mention if it opens up my options for coral.

Ok knowing you are maxed out on the primes then yes get a larger wattage light....

You will be able to keep a higher par so you will be able to start keeping some other SPS corals with new lights. That's not saying a prime hd wont grow sps that's why I said OTHER sps.

I started with a prime HD over my 32 cube and went to a 26 and now have a 32. I also have radion 30 g4 pros over my 75g.

There 32 isn't much better coloration from the 26 but it is noticed. I didnt have the 26 long enough before getting the 32 to note coral growth difference.

The 32 is only bluetooth controlled and the 26 are wifi.

I will say I like the look of the radions even on the same schedules much better than the hydras but they are also WAY more.

If it's in your budget I'd go the hybrid/hydra 4x26's setup. You can add almost any led style we are talking about to the hybrid and it gives you the par you need but sounds like AI is your favorite so why not stick with it

You can find smoking deals on 26s right now and you could start with 1 and keep adding!

 

[MichaelReefer]

You can find smoking deals on 26s right now and you could start with 1 and keep adding!

Thats why I was thinking about 26s. I can sell both my AI Primes, and round up over half of what I need for two just by selling them.

 

[Waynerock]

I have 3 primes over my 250 and have hardly any shading and growing SPS like crazy

 

[Waynerock]

you will have some decent shading with 1 26/32 the lens is very narrow

 

[MichaelReefer]

you will have some decent shading with 1 26/32 the lens is very narrow

Well, if I get a 26 I am going to get two.

 

[Waynerock]

Well, if I get a 26 I am going to get two.

perfect

 

[saltyhog]

I don't think a single 52 would be enough. I run 3 on a 72x24x21. Even then, there is some fall off (which I use for zoas and non demanding LPS.

Have you checked your PAR? At only 21" deep I would think there's a chance the Prime's would be adequate for SPS and you could probably get by with just buying an additional Prime.

 

[MichaelReefer]

I don't think a single 52 would be enough. I run 3 on a 72x24x21. Even then, there is some fall off (which I use for zoas and non demanding LPS.

Have you checked your PAR? At only 21" deep I would think there's a chance the Prime's would be adequate for SPS and you could probably get by with just buying an additional Prime.

From what I read, at 6 inches, a maxed out Prime HD only has around 118 Par at 16 inches.

If I were to get 26s, how high above the water do you think I should place them for a reefer 250?