Supplementing LEDs with Metal Halides

[JaaenKhan]

Hey guys my current setup currently has 3 x hydra 52 running and i'm considering supplementing with MH since the growth and colour on my SPS isn't all that fantastic. Getting a great deal on some Bali Sun pendant lights with 400W radium 20k dimmable ballast. Please see attached pictures for my current setup.
I want to put the pendant lights in-between the current Hydras. Do you think it will help with what I want to achieve?

 

[jda]

I would put the Halides in the best positions and move the Hydras. The Hydras will be supplementing the MH... the MH have better coverage and spectrum.

Do it. You will not likely turn back. If your ballast are selecta-a-watt, then run 250W on the shallow part and 400W on the deep one. The shallow tank does not need 400W of power. 20K Radiums in either wattage are outstanding lights.

Do not dim the halides. They are not made for this. The spectrum will shift wildly when not under the correct power. I assume that you mean that you have a selectable ballast and not dimmable... but wanted to mention this.

I think that I see a chiller under the baby tank. If you have a fan blow across the top when the lights come on, it will take care of nearly all of your heat problems (outside of Florida or Arizona). Do not wait until the tank gets warmer, just turn the fans on with the MH.

 

[Finhead]

Hey guys my current setup currently has 3 x hydra 52 running and i'm considering supplementing with MH since the growth and colour on my SPS isn't all that fantastic. Getting a great deal on some Bali Sun pendant lights with 400W radium 20k dimmable ballast. Please see attached pictures for my current setup.
I want to put the pendant lights in-between the current Hydras. Do you think it will help with what I want to achieve?

IMO it would be more benifital to sumpliment the LEDs with T5's, I went from using Hydra 26's to adding in 4 T5's. Growth and color is vastly better with the hybrid , still runs cool and lower wattage.