Switch out an AP700?

[SonoranReefer]

Hello all, I currently have one AP700 over a 48”x19”x21” 85g tank. I have it mounted quote high off the water to get the most coverage I can since it’s covering 48”. To compensate it peaks at 70% and I have been getting ok growth.

I am currently able to get 3 Radion XR30 Gen 2’s. Would this be a better lighting solution for my tank if I pretty much come out even on the trade? I assume I’d get much better coverage and be able to mount the three lights lower so I’d have less light spill in the room as well.

 

[hijinks7]

If you want to keep more high demand corals that need more light you'd come out ahead.

 

[Daniel Waters]

3 of the Gen 2's is going to give you more overall par and light distribution in your tank, as you'd have 6 "pucks" versus 2 on the AP700. But if you're only running your AP700 maxed at 70%, it sounds like you don't need the additional par. The light spillage may be an issue for you, and that's just something you'll have to decide. If you haven't seen radions in person versus your Kessil, though, you should do so before making a decision. The radions are going to provide more of a disco ball type shimmer compared to the AP700. You also need to factor in any extra costs you might have with switching, such as needing a reef link for connectivity (?) and mounting the 3 units.

 

[tank o tang]

Your kessil is still their top light, while the radions have progressed to gen4. I'd stick with the kessils and maybe add some t5 or a kessil 360. Might even find someone to trade you 2 gen 4's if you really want radions.