Lighting: LEDs +/- T5s?

[wurking_girl]

I had been planning to go with dimmable LEDs (white/blue/RGB) for my new 120g tank that's still in the planning stages. However, my LFS guy and 'design consultant' suggested that I consider a fixture that combines LEDs with T5s. I've tried searching this forum for thoughts on this but haven't found much. What is the rationale for combining the types of lighting? If anyone has experience with both, could you please give me your input? The cost seems to be pretty much the same in the units I'm looking at.

Thanks!

 

[rickynichols]

Usually LED lights are much higher priced than T5 fixtures. What are the fixtures you are looking at?

LED lights can get quite expensive but are cheaper to run and do not create much heat. They also give off a nice shimmer effect.

T5 lights are usually cheaper up front but can get expensive replacing the bulbs each year. There are lot of different colored T5 bulbs so its much easier to change the overall look of the aquarium without changing out entire fixtures. T5 lights still get hot but not as hot as metal halides.

Most people get the color they want with T5 bulbs and then add LED lights for a shimmer effect and moonlighting.

If you can find a good deal on a LED fixture that gives you the color you want there is not much need for the T5's.

Keep in mind if you are keeping corals there needs to be a lot of PAR coming out of your lighting. Cheap LED fixtures tend to be for color, not PAR and intensity.

Hope this helps.

 

[tqpolo]

Here you go, Sfiligoi GENESIS. Money can buy anything. How much are you willing to pay?

http://www.reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?t=2002250

 

[wurking_girl]

That's actually the fixture I'm looking at - either all LEDs or LEDs/T5s. Sounds like there is a concern about the spectrum with LEDs alone, but this may just be a perception of those used to T5/MH lighting. This was helpful reading, tho... Thanks!