So many choices

[jpduton]

I recently took down my 120g to setup a 75g cube,

So I was planning on using my MH lamp and my compressor based chiller, so I was planning on grabing 2 High Amp expansion sockets, then I thought maybe I should just get one of the new dig. powerbars with the high rush protection, or maybe the Light II which would give me additional 1-10v ports (which I'll need) and an extra temp port.

After setting up my chiller I started to think more about the PTC, thus getting the huge black box out of my living room and lose the need for the additional High Amp expansion.

No I'm thinking, maybe I should deal with the heat at the source and swap my MH for a 24" Aqua illumination Led light. This would give me some cool lighting, most likely eliminate my need for a chiller, eliminate my need for high amp sockets.
Plus I could sell my MH and Chiller to help pay for the light. One potential risk here would be finding out I still need a chiller after the swap.

Price brake down:
High Amp fix: 300$ approx.
Chiller swap: $1400 PTC4
Lighting Swap: $1400 24" w/ two 12" modules.


I'm deadlocked here,
decisions...decisions...decisions

 

[badazztealcobra]

What size MH lighting are you currently using ???

What are the dimensions on the cube tank ??? I would be worried about the LEDs being able to penetrate deep enough, but im just still cautious about LED lighting although I do think it will be the "norm" in a few years...

 

[AQD_ottawa]

what is your surface are measurments as i dont think one 24" unit will be anywhere near enough

I looked into doing this for my 6Lx3Wx2D and was told i needed 6 units to get adequate spread.

But best confirm with them directly

 

[jpduton]

My tank is 24" x 30" x 24",

A 24" is made of two 12" modules, and I could get the rack cut for 30" and have one behind the other.

I think when you were told six units they were talking about 6 12" modules.

In a review I read it stated that each 12" modules will has a coverage of 24" lenget and 18" width.

The leds are suppose to be capable to penetrate up to 30", my tank being 24" deep then minus 2-3" sand bed.

 

[AQD_ottawa]

I guess you are ok then but as with any big purchase always check with manufacturer first.

 

[jpduton]

I've talked with them aswell as Greg from Reef Geek,

AI also has the calculator:
http://www.aquaillumination.com/calc.html

 

[jpduton]

Well I decided to take the low road and go with a High Amp expansion socket and wait for some PTC reviews and a Canadian distributer AI units.

 

[AQD_ottawa]

I think your Toronto dealer will have the High AMP. I am not sure of dealers for Ai in canada you will need to check with Chris about this.

 

[jpduton]

I got the high Amp yesterday from RP.

As of right now, Reef Geek is the only seller for the AI units,