Marineland Advanced LED -- Sufficient to get started?

[BonesCJ]

So tank is 3 weeks into cycle, test numbers are good and diatom bloom is in full swing (sadly was WAY too excited to see that), I've got the 48 inch model of the Marineland Advanced LED strip light running now (leftover from when it was a planted tank) and was wondering if I could start testing some Macro's with this light? The replacement is going to be two Kessil a16we's with controller but I don't have the $$$ as of yet. I can say that Java ferns grew very well under this light when it was a FW planted tank.

Here is the LED I have now.
http://www.drsfostersmith.com/product/prod_display.cfm?c=3578+3733+10704+28562&pcatid=28562&r=518

 

[Jboone82590]

I think it will be fine if you are doing a FOWLER and maybe soft coral but i dont think it will be sufficient enough for anything more.

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[BonesCJ]

Not even softies, this is a macro tank

 

[rucnnefish]

I don't think you will see much growth with this light unless the macros are kept within the top 6-7 inches. Have you seen BRS's new video on chaeto growth under different lights, very informative!!

 

[Michael Hoaster]

Java fern doesn't need a lot of light. Did you have success with any brighter light-requiring plants? If so, give it a try. Some macros don't need a ton of light, but most do enjoy it, so the brighter the better, I think.

There are less expensive lights that work. T5s, power compact, even metal halide are cheaper than LEDs. Good lighting is required, what you pay is up to you. The Kessils are sexy though…

 

[BonesCJ]

Yeah sadly I have to agree, I'll just keep it cycling as a FOWLR till I get the proper lighting. I've used Kessils in the past to great results so I'm willing to shell out for a product I know works well, plus the shimmer is insane!

 

[Ron Reefman]

Google ReeFi-Lab. They have a new pendant with lots of extras and they may even be cheaper than the Kessils. I have one on order now. Then I get it I'll do a review and photos.

 

[BonesCJ]

prices do not appear to be that different, 2 kessil a160's with controller is $600, same as two of the Reefi pendants. Definitely interested to see how they stack up