AP700 and SPS

[PhantomHalo]

So I am getting some used AP700’s, but now I am reading that people can’t grow sps with them very well. However, most of these are older threads. Anyone here have any updates? Do you have to supplement with T-5’s? Is this true for all led or just this model? I see people supplementing with the Orphek strip, but not sure if that is to replace the t-5’s or? I was looking at possibly doing t-5’s later if needed, but would like to have a good main light first. Thanks all!

 

[PhantomHalo]

After some more research I should revise my question. Using a led light bars instead of t5’s (I don’t want to have to replace them every 6 months or so plus other reasons), I was thinking of the Orphek or the Reef Brites. However, I’m a little confused at which ones would grow sps better. I think my Kessil’s will give great color, but it’s the UV that they are missing correct? Would I need a light bar in front and back with each being a different spectrum or light? Two of each front and back or?

 

[Hydrored]

T5's alone grow SPS and are great to start with. I can't help with the AP700 as I've never used one

 

[PhantomHalo]

I’m thinking of using the led light strips that are supposedly just like the t5’s. I keep reading that people like them, but haven’t seen if they grow sps like the t5’s. Also which led light strip spectrum to get for growth?

 

[acro-ed]

I've run an AP700 for about a year now after having switched from an ATI T-5 light. The tank is a mixed reef 60g.

The AP700 has a great look with the color/shimmer and the LPS and softies look phenomenal, but the SPS are barely growing compared to the T-5. In hindsight I should've never sold the ATI, but I really wanted the shimmering look the Kessil provides. I really don't care for the T-5 "look" even though the corals do quite well.

A 4 bulb T-5 PLUS an Ap700 would be a great setup, but aesthetically it's not a good option for my particular tank (trying for a more minimalist look because the tank is also my kitchen table). Something else I would consider but I, personally, haven't found the right deal yet, is an ATI Powermodule. Best of luck in finding what works for you.

-Ed

 

[Hydrored]

I run 2 ReefBrite 36” XHO’s with Bluetooth controller that have been great and the corals love it along with my LED’s. Sad part is I will be getting rid of them in the new build due to how the lengths have to mount.

 

[Acrofiend]

I’ve owned an ap700 and had major problems with shading though they did grow my acros. Kessils have a natural shimmer but lack the blanket of light. I’d use Kessils as more of a supplement to t5’s or an led strip.

 

[PhantomHalo]

Is anyone having the same issue with the reef breeders not being able to grow sps very well without t5 supplementation? Just had a power outage today that reset me lights that I have now, (not the Kessils), but I heard the reef breeders keep the setting. I leave a lot for work so that would be a nice feature.

 

[RCS82]

If you're getting the AP700s then I would place an order for the AquaticLife T5 hybrid unit as well. You will need it. All the LED units need it unless you are going with the Atlantic V4, Phillips or Photons. If you haven't pulled the trigger on the AP700s then my vote would be an 8x80 ATI unit with a couple fans placed in your canopy for airflow. I wouldn't resist doing T5s, they are proven winners.

 

[minus9]

Two AP700's, single 360x and three Orphek OR2 blue plus bars on the sides.

 

[PhantomHalo]

If you're getting the AP700s then I would place an order for the AquaticLife T5 hybrid unit as well. You will need it. All the LED units need it unless you are going with the Atlantic V4, Phillips or Photons. If you haven't pulled the trigger on the AP700s then my vote would be an 8x80 ATI unit with a couple fans placed in your canopy for airflow. I wouldn't resist doing T5s, they are proven winners.

So the photons wouldn’t need the supplemental lighting? Would you recommend an led light bar still?

Two AP700's, single 360x and three Orphek OR2 blue plus bars on the sides.

Very impressive!