Considering Mitras for 72x48x30

[ekovalsky]

I'm retiring my DIY MH/VHO lighting with upgrade to a 450g tank and making the switch to LED, mostly because of efficiency and heat as I live in Arizona.

I've narrowed down my options to the Mitras 6200HV and Radion G3Pro. Although the former is a bit more expensive, it seems to have better coverage, potentially requiring less units, and I like the smaller and more efficient power supply. I have an old Profilux IIex controller which unfortunately can no longer be upgraded, so I am considering both a new Profilux 3 and Neptune Apex. I am familiar with Profilux programming already, and going with the Mitras might steer me towards Profilux once again.

Any suggestions on how many fixtures would be needed to light this tank ? Like my old setup, it will be a mixed reef with SPS, LPS, and some softies; corals will be judiciously placed where they get the light they needed so I do not require intense light everywhere. I was thinking 3-4 oriented with the long axis perpendicular to the tank length might be enough to cover it, if they are mounted fairly high.

 

[doggydoc]

I think 3 will do the trick. Regardless you won't regret the investment.

 

[trueblackpercula]

dont even think about it as i went from radion to mitras lx6100hxv and i am overjoyed. worth every penny and the software is state of the art.

 

[ekovalsky]

dont even think about it as i went from radion to mitras lx6100hxv and i am overjoyed. worth every penny and the software is state of the art.

Mitras are on sale right now ($849) and that makes the choice a little easier. I'm familiar with the Profilux controller too as I have a IIex right now. Sadly it is no longer upgradeable so will have to invest in a new III model.

I'll probably pick up four to cover a 72.5 x 48.5 x 30T tank. The rear 6" is internal overflow, so the actual area to illuminate is more like 72 x 42.

 

[doggydoc]

You won't regret it. Esp now that they are on sale. For that price, YOU CANT BEAT IT. Best lights in the market.
Consider emailing Allen at reefbytes.com. Best equipment and best customer service around. Hands down

 

[BigAl2007]

Yes for that price you'll practically be getting one for FREE.

The new ProfiLux Controllers are very nice. You won't go wrong upgrading your controller and be sure to get the Mitras to ProfiLux (PLM-PWC)wireless interface too. That is the BEES KNEES in terms of CONTROL! Here's an example of what the PLM-PWC does for you:

 

[ekovalsky]

BigAl - You have email

Also very interested in the solid mounting system you referred to in another thread here... that would also help me chose Mitras > RadionPro G3

 

[ekovalsky]

These are the two configurations I've been considering, both using four fixtures. Six would probably be better but at $750ea (Radion G3 Pro) or $850ea (Mitras on sale), I don't want to spend > $4k on lighting. The dotted line in the diagram is the perimeter brace, the back 6" of the tank past the brace is internal overflow. I had 48" usable depth for adequate clearance behind the tank, so it was either 48" with internal overflow or 42" with external overflow... decided to keep it all neat and contained.

This will be a mixed reef so SPS needing highest light i.e. acroporas will be judiciously placed in the upper part of the tank more directly under lighting. Lower levels will have other SPS and LPS, as well as photosynthetic and non-photosynthetic soft corals. One of the advantages of the Mitras is the larger coverage area.

Aquascape will be designed to take advantage of the 42" depth with a lot of open areas, caves, islands, etc. My current tank was only 29" deep and wound up being a reef wall... learned my lesson with 'less is more' when it comes to rock and will leave much more room this time for corals to grow and fish to swim

 

[AQD_ottawa]

@ 48" wide you have little choice but to go for option 2 and 4 units. the mitras has proven useful coverage of 36x36 (tank water depth is dependant on aquaculture)

 

[ekovalsky]

Actual display area is 42" wide, the back 6" ~ 42-48") will be overflow. Tank is also only visible from the front (in wall design), I will leave the back 6" of that 42" display mostly bare, with a steep rear wall tapering gradually towards the front.

If it were visible from all sides or display area itself was 48 I'd probably opt for 2 rows, but thinking in this particular setup one row might work.

 

[AQD_ottawa]

Try with one and see how it goes, you can always move things about.

 

[ekovalsky]

Here's the schematic...

 

[jjk_reef00]

Yes for that price you'll practically be getting one for FREE.

The new ProfiLux Controllers are very nice. You won't go wrong upgrading your controller and be sure to get the Mitras to ProfiLux (PLM-PWC)wireless interface too. That is the BEES KNEES in terms of CONTROL! Here's an example of what the PLM-PWC does for you:

Are the PLM-PWC for sale yet?

 

[BigAl2007]

Sorry it's the Wireless Mitras to ProfiLux interface I'm talking about up there. YES that particular card is available.

PLM-PWC Wireless card for Mitras to ProfiLux, PL-1011 sorry jjk_reef if I caused confusion if you thought I was talking about the wireless to ICloud interface.

 

[AQD_ottawa]

Yes available ans in stock