EcoTech Radions and SPS.

[Spiffy]

I have been really wanting to change from FOWLR to SPS, so far, I have begun dosing kalk, and getting other parameters into check, such as nitrate (undetectable so far), ammonia, and phosphates, (all also undetectable). I know that SPS requires strong lighting, but my budget will not allow metal halides. I have been doing a fair amount of research, and so far, I have found the SPS corals can be supported by a pair of Radions. Anyone got any input before I fully commit?

 

[Cosmojo]

You won't have any issues growing anything under radions. If budget is really a big deal, you can find cheap chinese LEDs that will grow them too. Good luck, and don't forget the pics when you start adding things!

 

[ajcanale]

Not only would two Radions (any generation really) support SPS, but in a 60g, they would likely need to be run at a relatively low intensity... 40%-60% maximum intensity depending on generation, color temperature, and optics. IMO.

 

[rovster]

2 radions on a 60 would be perfect. No problems with sps. That said I'm a bit confused since halides are way cheaper unless you have the 2 radions already. I have 4 g2 prod over my 120 so I have first hand experience

 

[joshky]

2 radions on a 60 would be perfect. No problems with sps. That said I'm a bit confused since halides are way cheaper unless you have the 2 radions already. I have 4 g2 prod over my 120 so I have first hand experience

Maybe the recurring bulb cost? Only thing I can think of...

Radions are definitely more expensive upfront.

 

[reefwiser]

Radions will grow SPS plus are fully programable lights. I have a mine set to ramp up and down over the day adjusting the spectrum also over the day.

 

[Spiffy]

Yes. Recurring bulb cost, and my electric bill, and the heat output in an already hot apartment. I would have to run my A/C more in the summer, plus the lights. No bueno. I have been reading up on acclimating my tank to the new intensity of the Radions, and that corals should be light acclimated, too. Thanks for the input everyone!

 

[Jrambo88]

I have 1 gen 3 radion 30 over my 28 (half the size) but I only run it at 45% and get fantastic growth

 

[rovster]

I would definitely start with the radions 10-14" over the water and 35-45% depending on program and where you put your corals. I started mine at 45% but my corals are all halfway down or on the bottom....