3 XR15 pro vs 2 xr30w on reefer 425xl

[GREENBUBBLE]

I am doing my first tank build, since giving up 15 years ago, and could use some help.

I am waiting for my RedSea Reefer 425XL to arrive and trying to figure out the best lighting option for a mixed reef. The tank is 47Long 23Deep and 22Tall. All of the coral will be in a 40inx16in centered rectangle area, with 12in mounting depths for SPS and 18in mounting depths for most LPS.

3 XR15 G4 Pro with 3 diffusers and 3 mounting arms is: $1605

2 XR30w with 2 diffusers and 2 mounting arms is: $1630 (not pro model)

From what i have read, the par levels should be about the same. THe PRO has a better lens but only 3 sources of light, were the 2-XR30 would have 4 points of light. Does the extra point of light make up for the less superior lenses of the PRO? Does the PRO version have added functions or control-ability over the standard version? Finally, does the pro offer a better spectrum or additional colors with the extra LEDs?

The rock layout will be two small mounds that are not very tall. This is what the rock layout will look like..

Thanks in advance!

 

[cdavmd]

I can't answer re the xr30 non pro but between both pro I would go with the 15's. They are essentially the same and by going with the 15's you have more flexibility.

I'm currently building a 425xl as well and went with two xr15pro. Later I might add a third if my tank needs it.

 

[GREENBUBBLE]

The 2 xr30's, in total, are about 5% more powerful than 3 XR15's
The 2 XR30's have additional coverage and less shadowing by having 4 points of light source, compared to 3 from the XR15's.

The 3 XR15's have additional spectrum (2 violet, 1 Warm White per unit)

I assume, since both are G4, that they have the same functionality and lenses.

It seems to come down to coverage vs additional spectrum.

 

[GREENBUBBLE]

I can't answer re the xr30 non pro but between both pro I would go with the 15's. They are essentially the same and by going with the 15's you have more flexibility.

I'm currently building a 425xl as well and went with two xr15pro. Later I might add a third if my tank needs it.

Do you have a picture of your tank? Id love to see it!

 

[mfinn]

If I were doing this, I would do the 2 fixture setup over the 3 fixtures.

 

[JERZY75]

Can I have your schedule for xr15w?


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

 

[JERZY75]

I have one xr15 pro g4 tank 18" tall


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk