So I finally have my 90gal setup (48x18x24) and I have canopy over it. I'm torn between the two Ap700's with two t5 bulbs or two 52s with two-four bulbs retrofitted. I know the G4 pros are out, but for some reason I prefer to have t5s for spread vs the lense. I'm crazy like that lol, but in all seriousness what are some of you guys and gals opinions on either lighting option??
Kessil Ap700 vs Hydra 52
- Thread starter Ben.91
- Start date
One thing to consider is with the AI you can get parts once out of warranty, AI in the past has offered upgrade paths so you can stay currant. The control features on the AI I believe are much better and have a pretty good track record. For me personally I have read the AP700 can't be turned up past 70 percent, the control software is not great but there is nothing like the Jessie shimmer, you will either love it or hate it, if you can see one in person that will help.
Ask someone who owns the AP700 and the answer is AP700. Ask someone who owns the Hydras and the answer is the Hydras.
You really can't get much useful information from others in this case because they are both great lights. The AP700 is obviously a bit more powerful and a single AP700 is designed to cover a 4' tank, so two of them is going to be an incredible amount of PAR. You will have no need for the T5s for coverage, really, but they will help to reduce the shimmer which can be a bit too much on the AP700. Also, you could add the diffusion lenses to the AP700 to further even out the light.
I have nothing useful to say about the Hydras other than they look nice. I don't own them and never really researched them much when deciding.
You really can't get much useful information from others in this case because they are both great lights. The AP700 is obviously a bit more powerful and a single AP700 is designed to cover a 4' tank, so two of them is going to be an incredible amount of PAR. You will have no need for the T5s for coverage, really, but they will help to reduce the shimmer which can be a bit too much on the AP700. Also, you could add the diffusion lenses to the AP700 to further even out the light.
I have nothing useful to say about the Hydras other than they look nice. I don't own them and never really researched them much when deciding.
AI stopped upgrades after ecotech bought them.
GimpyFin
Active member
IMO, neither. I've owned 3 different sets of Hydras and I've seriously looked at the Kessils 'til I was (Shimmery) blue in the face. The Hydras are good and have decent controls, but they don't shimmer like Kessil. The downfall on the Kessil is the control kinda sucks. I upgraded my lights from Hydra HDs about a month ago and I looked several options before going with a pair of GHL Mitras LX7. They don't shimmer quite like Kessil but have great color blending light puck layout. Their control app and the level of functionality you get with it is ridiculous. Anyway, they're worth a look if you're considering new LED fixtures.
I love the Mithras only downside for me is having to whip out a laptop to adjust the lights
