That time again....need suggestions.

icedgxe · Apr 21, 2010

So it's time to replace my bulbs again. I am running a current sunpod with 150w hqi's. I have been running pheonix 14k's and have been pretty pleased. I do however notice that around 8 months on mine that algae picks up and I start losing growth and color in my corals. I have been thinking about switching bulbs for a while now. I am looking for the best combo of color and par. So far these are the bulbs I am looking at....
Radium 20k
Aqualine 13000k
Pheonix 14k
Keep in mind that right now I am not having to run my actinics and I kind of like it that way. Does anyone have any experience with the aqualine? How will the life of the radium be compared to the pheonix? Par? Any help or suggestions are welcomed.

dakotasreef · Apr 21, 2010

If you have been happy with the pheonix bulbs I would stick with them. I have used them in the past and was very pleased. Currently I am using the Reeflux 10k with actinics and am extremely happy.

But from my experience the pheonix bulbs are great and you get good growth with good color. If you have money to throw around, try the other bulbs. But if your like me, stick with what has worked for you in the past.

Just my .02 worth

icedgxe · Apr 22, 2010

hmmmm....

icedgxe · Apr 22, 2010

^Bump

EliteReefs · Apr 22, 2010

i would also say stick with what you have. its a very good bulb and the color is very nice.

if you had bigger bulbs i would say the radium but in this case the 150 radium IS NOT the same as the 250's or 400's you here people raving about. dont get me wrong they are sitll good bulbs but when you hear people going on and on about radium they are in general talking about the SE 250's in 400's. 400's being the best of the bunch.

for your bulb size the pheonix is one of the best