Lighting upgrade time maybe ?

Chris Spaulding · Mar 11, 2019

I have a Redsea Reefer 250 and curenty I am running 3 AI Solblues. I have had these lights since they came out years ago and were above a tank (260gal Oceanic Bowfront ) that after 16 years had a major seam failure.
Question is, I have been thinking of upgrading the lighting being there has been a lot more advancement in the tec of LEDs. I have been looking at the AP700 and the GHL Mitras Lx 7206.
This tank is an SPS mostly and atm I am seeing growth and happiness from the few Monies and 3 test Acros I have and the Zoe’s I have.
Should I upgrade and if so what would be the best light ? With the 3 Solblues above the tank I have great coverage.
The AP700 has the spread to handel the tank.
The GHL I am not sure about.
My budget is at the $800 mark.
Will this be worth the upgrade or should I just save the money for later?

Thank You

jda · Mar 11, 2019

IMO, that ap700 would be a downgrade. I do not use LED, so take this for what it is worth, but if somebody forced me, Kessil would be near the bottom and well below the Mitras and most black boxes. I am a panel guy more than a puck, so this is part of it.

Honestly, you might get the most bang for getting an AquaticLife Hybrid and adding some T5s.

Chris Spaulding · Mar 11, 2019

jda said:
IMO, that ap700 would be a downgrade. I do not use LED, so take this for what it is worth, but if somebody forced me, Kessil would be near the bottom and well below the Mitras and most black boxes. I am a panel guy more than a puck, so this is part of it.

Honestly, you might get the most bang for getting an AquaticLife Hybrid and adding some T5s.

.

Chris Spaulding · Mar 11, 2019

Thank you for the input. ATM I have almost the whole top covered in lighting and I believe that there is not a single shaded area unless it is in a cave or a large overhang. So more like a whole panel over the top. I have been concerned about proper spectrum being the Solblues lack UV , red ,red ,green and other blue colors.

Jay Norris · Mar 12, 2019

If you go the LED route, go with the LX 7206 Mitra's, they are a little pricey, but you will not be disappointed. They will grow and color up any coral you can buy, and they also have great coverage.