LED vs PC/Metal Halide combo

DjGhostRider · May 11, 2013

Just curious as to what everyone's thoughts are regarding LED and PC/Metal Halide lighting. I have PC/MH, but I've been flirting with the idea of going LED. I've heard mostly good stuff about LED (mainly that it doesn't use as much power, maintain spectrum longer, etc) but i've had really good results with my current fixture in the past. I'm not sure if it was my feeding or the lights, but my frags grew like wildfire in my last tank so I'm not too worried about making the change. Any thoughts?

DjGhostRider · May 11, 2013

Well, looking back through the history, I see my question has been asked and answered. On to the next one, any thoughts on a good LED system?

Reefing Madness · May 12, 2013

https://www.reef2reef.com/forums/led-lighting-specific/75529-poll-light-emitting-diodes-fixture.html
LED Fixtures Archives | Reef LED LightsReef LED Lights
Ecoxotic Panorama Pro LED Light Fixture
120W Dimmable LED Full Spectrum Grow Fish Tank Reef Coral Aquarium Light Lamp | eBay

DjGhostRider · May 13, 2013

Thank you for the reply.

Eckolancer · May 13, 2013

Diy

Sent from inside the shark tank!

bucksfan1976 · May 13, 2013

Dj it when it comes to LEDs you are going to get 10,000 replies that are all personal opinions. Here are some good questions to ask yourself

1. How much do you want to spend?
2. Do you want the lighting controllable/dimmable?
3. Do you want full spectrum or normal blue/white?
4. Could you do a DIY fixture
5. Are you looking to grow all coral types?

These are all good questions you need to ask yourself. People are gonna say go Radion they are the best, Some will say go the cheap chineese fixtures, or you could go in the middle. Its really what do YOU want to spend on them. Also consider any future upgrades you might do such as tanks and such. In My opinon here is what I think is top in each class price wise

High End: Ecotech Radion Pro

Middle: Maxspect Razor 160 Watt

Lower end: Rapid LEDs pre built fixtures, Taotronics

Its really what do you want out of your leds. Do research and you have started right by coming here and asking because you fill find alot of valuable information on LEDs here.

DjGhostRider · May 14, 2013

bucksfan1976,

Thanks for the information and advice. I think I'm going to stick with what I have for now since it has worked well for me in the past. However, if/when it dies then I'm certainly going to look into the ones you mentioned.

Thanks again,

Sam

DjGhostRider · May 14, 2013

I would, but I'm not that talented...

Sam

DjGhostRider · May 14, 2013

bucksfan1976 said:
Dj it when it comes to LEDs you are going to get 10,000 replies that are all personal opinions. Here are some good questions to ask yourself

1. How much do you want to spend?
2. Do you want the lighting controllable/dimmable?
3. Do you want full spectrum or normal blue/white?
4. Could you do a DIY fixture
5. Are you looking to grow all coral types?

These are all good questions you need to ask yourself. People are gonna say go Radion they are the best, Some will say go the cheap chineese fixtures, or you could go in the middle. Its really what do YOU want to spend on them. Also consider any future upgrades you might do such as tanks and such. In My opinon here is what I think is top in each class price wise

High End: Ecotech Radion Pro

Middle: Maxspect Razor 160 Watt

Lower end: Rapid LEDs pre built fixtures, Taotronics

Its really what do you want out of your leds. Do research and you have started right by coming here and asking because you fill find alot of valuable information on LEDs here.

I just found out that the PC bulbs for my fixture havebeen discontinued. Be that as it is, I guess I'll have to go to LED. I'velooked at some other threads on here and have a few ideas of what I should gowith but I wanted a few opinions before I pull the trigger on one.
From what I’ve seen so far these seem like they wouldwork fine-
http://www.reefbreeders.com/it2080.html
http://www.buildmyled.com/14000k-custom-reef-spectrum/
http://www.ebay.com/itm/MARINELAND-LED-REEF-CAPABLE-LIGHT-FOR-AQUARIUMS-48-60-W-INTEGRATED-TIMER-/370769089833?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item56538f5529
This one looks good as well but I’m a little concerned withit being manufactured in China. http://www.ebay.com/itm/120W-Dimmable-LED-Full-Spectrum-Grow-Fish-Tank-Reef-Coral-Aquarium-Light-Lamp-/310657779860?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item4854a58894
In case this helps any with suggestions,
1. I'm looking for a reasonable light so I'mguessing between $300-1000.
2. Controllable is preferred.
3. Whichever is better for growth.
4. I'd be lost trying to do it myself.
5. I plan on starting with what I've grown in thepast and move on from there.
6. Tank dimensionsare 60x18x18.
Thanks again for all of the replies, I’m still pretty newat this.

Sam