T5's and LED?

Wbflyer · Apr 2, 2020

Hello all,

I am currently using the Viperspar 165 and for the past year or more it has done ok. birds nest is growing and most corals are showing growth. However, I have been thinking about going to T5's and LED since I have heard T5's do really well for SPS and LPS. I also have a Current Marine LED light rated at around 50 watts that I could use in conjunction with the T5's.

1. what are your thoughts on T5 and LEDs?
2. My tanks is 16 X 36. Should I get a 36" fixture or the 24" fixture. My worry is the the 36" dimensions will be longer than the tank.

Thanks!

GoVols · Apr 2, 2020

Welp

Go with a 36" with the right depth to match your 16"

T5s help with front to back light spread in conjunction with leds in the middle

Right now ATI is running 20% off until the 15th.

ATI Lighting

Bulk Reef Supply - Saltwater Aquarium Supplies for Reef Tanks

www.bulkreefsupply.com

36" SunPower High Output T5 Light Fixture

Just 2.1" thick, 36" ATI SunPower High Output T5 fixture provides optimal performance in a slim, contemporary design. Parabolic Miro-Silver reflectors made from silver-coated 98% reflective aluminum for each bulb Active cooling system 2 Power cords - one controls 2 bulbs and the other controls...

www.bulkreefsupply.com

36" LED T5 WIFI PowerModule Hybrid

Create Balance with T5 & LED Lights Over the past few years we have really grown to love hybrid LED/T5 light fixtures for their coverage, intensity, and capability to create a complete spectrum, making it the perfect light for any reef tank. Built-In WiFi Controller Individual Parabolic...

www.bulkreefsupply.com

Just tossing it on the table

Phildago · Apr 2, 2020

Get a 36 inch for sure.

I had 4 t5 with led hybrid on my 40 b. And it just wasn't enough. 36 would have been better and 6 bulbs at 36 inch would've been ideal.

I recently switched back to led only, and it's way better. I DIY my lights, so I went with overkill in the leds. I have excellent coverage now and and easily customizable spectrum that looks great. I would recommend this over t5s but it's not doable for everybody.

My second recommendation would be doing an 8 bulb t5 only if you could fit it. The space would be tight, but 2 inches is doable. There's no need for leds with t5s. The t5 alone are great, the only issue with them is the bulb replacement every 14 months.