How would you guys rate this light?

reefguy40gal · Jan 2, 2015

I have had this light for about 6 months now: Current USA Orbit Marine LED Aquarium Light

I primarily have zoas in my tank....mushroom or two, one nem (bubble tip pink) and some frogspawn. I primarily want zoa growth.

The zoas are all on frags and....they have been growing, but not as fast as some of my other friends tanks.

So would you guys reccomend I update to a new LED? If so, which one? Price...$500 or thereabouts is my budget.

I'm also using a 36" blue-only LED light that a friend gave to me. See attached pic.

wrongpolo · Jan 2, 2015

That light, per the manufacturers par readings, may be a bit on the weak side if you are looking for growth. Their measurements on a 24" tank are 5-20 on the bottom and you could expect anywhere between 20-70 on the bottom of your 40 gal. maybe less with the top on the tank. I believe the LED's they use on that fixture are the 0.2 watt kind. you may want to look into getting a fixture with 3w LED's to really make a difference. I personally talk to Rick from reef radiance, He's pretty helpful and the fixtures they have are solid and budget friendly (read: more $$ for coral!) Hope that helps!

reefguy40gal · Jan 2, 2015

Does his lights come with a controller? If not, how much do those cost?

I liked this light because it was budget friendly (at the time) and it had a controller and those "actinic" lights (whatever they are). So I have automatic morning, noon, night and moon for my tank.

Chris-tico · Jan 2, 2015

reefguy40gal said:
Does his lights come with a controller? If not, how much do those cost?

I liked this light because it was budget friendly (at the time) and it had a controller and those "actinic" lights (whatever they are). So I have automatic morning, noon, night and moon for my tank.

Check this out. Reef Radiance - Home