AI Sol LED help!

Belegul

New member
My wife and I are setting up a 4x2x2 tank, initially will be a FOWLR, as we're new to saltwater, and then (eventually) there will be an anemone and/or some corals. Not fully planned the final, future stock yet (we're just gonna try and keep the fish alive first!)

We have most options picked out, last to do is lighting. We really like the low power consumption, and the pretty shadowing/flickering effects of the LED lights, and we'd gladly pay more up front for the long-term savings cost.

After a fair amount of research, it seems like the AI Sol modules are very good LEDs, and will be sufficient to make my fish's colors "pop" and also to provide enough light for the (future) nem. My questions:

1) Does anybody have experience with teh AI LED system? What did you think?

2) How many modules should I get for a 4x2x2 120 gal? I was thinking 3, but their website says 1 per foot. Seems excessive looking at the spread, but I also don't want a spotlight effect.

3) Would the Sol White, or the Sol Super Blue, be better for making the colors pop? Or a combination? I don't think I need the extra PAR from the Sol White, and it seems the blue has a more appropriate color spectrum for pretty colorful fishies, but I'd also like the input from those with more experience in this hobby than I have.

Thanks in advance!

ps- I don't need to be inundated with comments about "use T5 lights, they're cheaper and you don't need great light for a FOWLR!" :) We really do prefer the look of LED/MH lights over any of the flourescent lighting we've looked at, and the extra cost isn't prohibitive :) Thanks again!
 
I have 2 sol blues over a two foot cube. I have a third arriving next week as they are being transferred to a three foot 65. I agree with the one per foot in order to avoid shadowing. Many use less than the recommended amount and have beautiful tanks, but if cost is not a factor- more is better.

I have never seen the whites but the blues are amazing over sps/clams and provide more than enough par. I only ramp up to 60% and coral growth is better than when I used halides.

The mounting legs that they come with are not great and the only negative I can associate with AI's. I strongly recommend using a hanging kit, AI or a diy.

These are great lights, you will not be disappointed.
 
I have 6 on my 7' 200 gallon. I love them. I have been in hobby for 36 yrs & have used Metal halide & VHO mostly. My power bill has gone down about 50.00 a month.

Colors & versitility are great. I would get 3 & be prepared to one day buy a 4th. If you hang them 8-12" off the water for FOWLR you will be happy. Especially with the low heat aspect.
 
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