Thanks Scott,
As far as my lighting goes, I am pretty pleased with the Radions so far. Particularly having the ability to adjust the spectrum to your liking. However, there are times when I do miss the natural look and shimmer of MH's but I really don't miss the constant bulb replacement, coral adjustment time period after new bulbs are replaced and their overall replacement costs.
For the reefbrite, I actually had moved that from my main display and now using it over my frag tank. I am planning to add some T5's to that tank. Great light and like it for different reasons.
I'm currently using a Actinic BMLED and blue T5's for additional supplement. If I could, I probably would just go all T5's all together just because I had the best coloration and growth using VHO's on a small reef tank I had about 10 years ago (Old ICECAP retro). Unfortunately this tank is 30" deep and I probably would not be able to get a good par level down to the bottom to support some of corals I currently have. Replacement costs and spectrum loss over time for all T5's were another downfall for me to consider this option.
For the nutrients, I've kind of learned to gauge the nutrient levels by observing some of my corals. For example I've learned to tell by looking at my green birdsnest when my nutrients are too low (becomes more yellow in color instead of deep green). If there are to low, then I may just skip a week or so for my next water change or simply increase my feeding. What I've done so far is really just gotten myself into a standard maintenance routine that seems to work. I do employ a large Reef Octopus skimmer designed for up to 400 gallons, filter socks and occasionally use carbon and GFO when needed by just placing it in a mesh bag in my filter socks.
Hope this helps.
Tim
