AI nano or hydra?

[titoav15]

Looking to get LEDs for my frag tank. It only has about 8" depth filled with softies and LPS. Looking for best growth I know that hydra and even nano might be overkill however I like that hydra has more colors in the unit. Also I believe that hydra has frosted lens for defused lighting. I am leaning towards hydra... whats your opinion?

Tank size is 24 x 16 x 8

Also... Is the director better than the controler?

Thanks!

 

[Mark Bianco]

IMO The Hydra is a better choice just for the colors and diffused lighting. I have had Sols for about 2 years and never quite happy with the color, they grow coral well. That's one nice thing about leds adjustability of the color and intensity,

Mark

 

[titoav15]

Great thanks for the input Mark! Now just the controller question... Should I buy the director instead of the controller? Just wonder what option is better

 

[FullBoreReefer]

I run 2 hyrdas. And just use their wireless controller. Works fine for me. Ive heard the Director still has bugs after being out for awhile, thats why its listed as "beta" version IMO. Unless you make adjustments everyday, and while your not at home, i would say save some money and get the wireless...

 

[das75]

Not sure what you're running for lights on your display but the Director can control lights on multiple tanks

 

[Mark Bianco]

Great thanks for the input Mark! Now just the controller question... Should I buy the director instead of the controller? Just wonder what option is better

I have old eyes I like being able to sit down at my desktop with a 21" monitor So its the director for me.

Mark

 

[Mark Bianco]

I run 2 hyrdas. And just use their wireless controller. Ive heard the Director still has bugs after being out for awhile, thats why its listed as "beta" version IMO. Unless you make adjustments everyday, and while your not at home, i would say save some money and get the wireless...

When is the last time you looked. No its not in beta anymore Ok not at least according to AI...

 

[titoav15]

Thanks for the input everyone! Yes, I also thought that the beta version is over, is it not?
I am wondering does the director have any additional features that the controller doesn't?
I know that the director can control multiple tanks with it, I like that it can sync with the current weather, upgrading firmware I assume is easier. Anything I am missing? Would it have more customizable features? Just think that it is easier to control the lights from the laptop also?

 

[titoav15]

By the way, I will get hydras, now just debating on the director/controller!

 

[Mark Bianco]

With the director you have the ability to use a smart phone app if you wish. I do not think you have that option with the standard wireless controller. How many us have a tendency to temporary misplace a remote controller we don't regularly use. Your phone is always close. If you are like me and travel for work with the director you can log into your lights and change up the schedule...

Mark

 

[magaman]

I just picked up a set of Hydra's and went with the Director. The only issue I had with it was my wifi signal. I made some changes this weekend and it's been great. It offers an ease of use level that I don't think the controller gives. You can set everything through your PC plus keep tabs on everything on the go via iPhone/iPad. Plus as others have said if you get more AI lights down the road on other tanks in the home you can run them through the same director. Also firmware upgrading of the Director and lights is super simple with the web interface.

 

[FullBoreReefer]

When is the last time you looked. No its not in beta anymore Ok not at least according to AI...

Its been awhile to be honest. Just a few reports from a few other members still having bugs, but again thats just what ive heard. Maybe its been fixed since the last time ive spoken to them(other members not AI), which has been about 2wks or so.

All points are valid from you guys. Im sure its great!

 

[FullBoreReefer]

With the director you have the ability to use a smart phone app if you wish. I do not think you have that option with the standard wireless controller. How many us have a tendency to temporary misplace a remote controller we don't regularly use. Your phone is always close. If you are like me and travel for work with the director you can log into your lights and change up the schedule...

Mark

Is this open to android yet?

If like youve stated, and i ask around and all "bugs" are gone, the only thing really holding me back from yet another upgrade, haha, is the lack of android compatability.

...and no im not going apple, haha

 

[titoav15]

We'll it sounds like I am sold on the director, thanks everyone for your input!
Also from reading on their website it looks like they do have apps for android.

 

[das75]

android app is mentioned, I haven't seen it yet. Connecting directly or through my.ai works great

 

[titoav15]

So I ordered AI hydra with the director, will come on the 24, really excited. Will post my final conclusion with the director when I use it