Controller and led guys opinions please

[bmiller1234]

So I am in the pre planning stages for my new set up. I am going to be setting up a 60 cube 24x24x24 and will be making this a modern system with bells and whistles but still with a budget. Have a few things that I need opinions on and looking for guidance.

I am definitely going led lighting and a controller but their is so much conflicting crazy info it's almost mind boggling. I am considering a few different routes but don't know which road to take. Looking for some real world reviews on what works what's nice and what you would do differently next time...

It seems apex is the way to go but a bit pricier. I am thinking of going with a DIY build from rapid led but after looking at the max spect mazzara with the ability to switch out led colors to fine tune color is it worth the money? I like the whole simulated weather thing but is it worth it or is it just something to flaunt when people come over? And if I go with a controlled led fixture do I need the extra capabilities of an apex if the fixture is just going to do it for me?

Anyone have similar set ups that they like or dislike?

Thanks in advance

 

[ScottB]

I have a 60 cube (Solana XL60) 24x24x24. I run an Apex controller and Radion XR30 LEDs that seem to do everything the Maxspect does. Personally, I wouldn't change a thing.

 

[ScottB]

And if I go with a controlled led fixture do I need the extra capabilities of an apex if the fixture is just going to do it for me?

My controller is not yet used for the lights, as the Radion has its own. However, my dosing pumps, heaters, stand lights, ATO, MP10s, skimmer, reactors, etc are run by the apex, and it allows me the ability to remote monitor/manage the tank and alerts me via eamil/text when something is not up to snuff, like high temp, or water on the floor, etc. Eventually, the APEX code is supposed to be able to control the Radion, I hear, but until then, I am ok. If I do reach a high-temp situation, the APEX does shut the lights off, but does not controlled colors or photoperiod.

 

[slate55]

I actually did it a bit different
I used the DIY route . Rapid is very easy to deal with
And you can customize your order to a "t" picking colors lenses ect..
It saves so much money it allows you to go big on the controller end.
The apex benefits the whole system function not just the LEDs

 

[slate55]

Also look up "key k3 aquarium led"
Little less expensive than maxspect, uses Cree LEDs similar features.
The Sps bar has a few flashy features to Simulate storms ect

 

[raynist]

I am trying led's on my 60g cube. Should have them up this week.

 

[johnnie1960]

I did the diy thing with timers and dimmer pots, but cant beat aquaillumination with controller !

 

[bmiller1234]

Slate-do you control your DIY led with the apex or do you just adjust it manually and let the apex control time? I did a little reading but not enough yet and I assume you can control photoperiod time and ramp up and down?

Ray-are you putting up a DIY led or did you get a unit?

 

[bmiller1234]

Dbl pst

 

[slate55]

With the apex, the main unit has variable 1-10v dimming ports for sunrise sunset . Not just turning them on and off but turning them on and adjusting the levels dimming bright and then dimming out using the program automatically . Just like the AI modules .. You can also simulate cloudy days ect.. You can get the main unit which has the 1-10v ports or you can get a vdm module that adds on 4 more ports . After all you'll save the money on a DIY kit it will pay for the controller . And will probably have better LEDs .

You just need to make sure you get the Mean-Well-ELN-60-48D not the P

 

[turbo21]

I have a diy setup over my 220. Just switched to the 220 over the weekend, but have been running them over my 125 for about 6 months. I went the cheap route using bridgelux leds from aquastyleonline. I dont use a controller and dont see the need to. I have manual dimming capabilities and once i got everything acclimated they are right where they need to be. I have my whites and blues on seperate timers and couldnt be happier

bob

 

[slate55]

I have a diy setup over my 220. Just switched to the 220 over the weekend, but have been running them over my 125 for about 6 months. I went the cheap route using bridgelux leds from aquastyleonline. I dont use a controller and dont see the need to. I have manual dimming capabilities and once i got everything acclimated they are right where they need to be. I have my whites and blues on seperate timers and couldnt be happier

bob

I must say he makes a good point a controller is not a necessity. I ran my tank manual for about a year playing with different levels with two separate pots. The controller was just a cool toy .. Lol but then again isn't that why we are all here ...

 

[bmiller1234]

I have decided to go radion... I weighed all the options with diy and chinese lights and its just worth it for my cube to use a radion. Rapid isn't much cheaper once you add on all the extra stuff they dont include in a "ultra premium" kit!

I will be setting up a build thread for my cube once I get everything rolling.
Thanks for all the info

 

[Honks69]

Has anyone in the Pittsburgh general area tried a DIY led setup? I am thinking about it and if i do Id like to go with a diy controller as well.

I know I can handle the fixture but the controller is what scares me. I wondered if anyone locally has tired any of the diy controllers and if so is there anywhere locally that sells parts to make one.

Thanks

 

[krshlln300]

Honks69- If you want to save yourself the trouble i have an aquacontroller jr. I am getting rid of. It would come with a dc8, 2 month old standard ph probe (with the cap to prevent the tip from drying out.), temp probe, lunar module, and display. You could control your lights but I think you would still need a dimming module for the diy lights to ramp up/down and dim etc.

 

[krshlln300]

Theres bound to be other used controllers on here as well.

 

[Honks69]

Honks69- If you want to save yourself the trouble i have an aquacontroller jr. I am getting rid of. It would come with a dc8, 2 month old standard ph probe (with the cap to prevent the tip from drying out.), temp probe, lunar module, and display. You could control your lights but I think you would still need a dimming module for the diy lights to ramp up/down and dim etc.

How much are you asking?

PM me if you don't want it posted

I am interested

Thanks