Lumen Max Elite

[victor90]

This is the New Lumen Max Elite that from Sunlight Supply I was one of the Beta Testers choosen *I am not selling these reflectors only testing them as a Hobbyists. The reflector is 15L x 15W x 5H. Heres the first pictures. I will set up on wed and take some par readings.
http://i230.photobucket.com/albums/ee95/atbusa/atb002.jpg
http://i230.photobucket.com/albums/ee95/atbusa/atb004.jpg
http://i230.photobucket.com/albums/ee95/atbusa/atb005.jpg
http://i230.photobucket.com/albums/ee95/atbusa/atb003.jpg

[GSMguy]

Im confused why its all hammertone i wonder if that could be better than the lumenarc smooth reflector. :)

thanx for sharing :)

[chewie]

The hammertone or dimples are to help with hot spots.

I want to see a side by side comparo with a lumenarc mini as it's almost the same footprint.

Victor,

Do you have a lumenarc to compare to?

Edit: Just read your profile. Are you LA's full sized or mini?

[GSMguy]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12063895#post12063895 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by chewie
The hammertone or dimples are to help with hot spots.

I want to see a side by side comparo with a lumenarc mini as it's almost the same footprint.

Victor,

Do you have a lumenarc to compare to?

Ah! Thanks.

[gcarroll]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12063206#post12063206 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by GSMguy
Im confused why its all hammertone i wonder if that could be better than the lumenarc smooth reflector. :)

thanx for sharing :) Let's not forget that the full sized Lumenmax (which also used some hammertone facets) outperformed the full sized Lumenarc III. I am really looking forward to these reflectors on my tank! :D

[victor90]

Yes I have some of the original full sized lumenarcs they are not minis though
Some cool features are the reflector actually can be separated from the white mounting bracket if you need to take out the reflector
The socket is adjustable and flipped to position the cord up or down
The hammertone is Alanod Miro 9 it is hands down the best in diffusion properties

[GSMguy]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12064331#post12064331 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by gcarroll
Let's not forget that the full sized Lumenmax (which also used some hammertone facets) outperformed the full sized Lumenarc III. I am really looking forward to these reflectors on my tank! :D

yep i remember that, although the victory was marginal hopefully this reflector will improve on that :)

[gcarroll]

True! It was marginal, but few out there know that the Lumenarc was bested, even if by that small margin.

[GSMguy]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12066038#post12066038 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by gcarroll
True! It was marginal, but few out there know that the Lumenarc was bested, even if by that small margin.

yes there are still many who say the lumenarc is the best.

I have 2x Reef optix3 HQI now which are fine for my 36x18 tank but the tank im ordering tomorrow will be 48x27 and i am hoping to keep my same lighting setup of 2x250 just switch from DE to SE with better reflectors these look like contenders.

[wishntoboutside]

greg, if you get one of these let me know we can use my par meter to measure the difference.=)
very nice to see new stuff popping up

[chewie]

The suspense is killing me.















Not really but I do see ATB USA is browsing.............

[gcarroll]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12071355#post12071355 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by wishntoboutside
greg, if you get one of these let me know we can use my par meter to measure the difference.=)
very nice to see new stuff popping up all this time, and I never knew you had a PAR meter. Whay is that? Here I have been driving 40 miles to borrow one.

[victor90]

The results so far the lumen max elite has more output in the 2ft by 2ft area. The lumen arc spreads the light out more. I will take some readings tonight

[victor90]

Both light reading were taken right in the middle of the reflector with a yard stic stuck right next to the bulb using a brand new Milwaukee sm700.
3 readings were taken for better accuracy
multiply all by 100Lux
Lumenmax 8" from the bulb reading1 670 666 671
16" 187 184 183
35" 80 83 84

Lumenarc
8" 185 188 189
16" 85 89 86
35" 24 24 22

[victor90]

Reeflux 12k 250 watt bulbs less than 1 month usage
Sunlight supply galaxy e ballast

[gcarroll]

Sunlight Supply does it again. This is what happens when science meets reflector design. I can't wait to get mine!:D

[victor90]

I think I am going to buy 3 of the 150 watt de ones

[chewie]

nice! I may have to pick one up

cough pics cough

lol

[Lagger]

Can u get a hold of a lumenarc mini for comparison? More like for like, tit for tat ;)

I dont think it's fair comparing the max elite vs. a full size lumenarc, esp on a 250 bulb. Of course the intensity is going to be more on a smaller reflector.....

[GSMguy]

i need some 250w DE ones, Greg did you order them yet? where from?

[victor90]

Unfortunately I do not have a mini lumenarc

[BAB43]

where can you get these and what do they cost?

[victor90]

Please contact Sunlight Supply
I am asking them to make a 150 de version since the light is so intense I figure I could use three of them and save electricity and still have insane lighting

[ksed]

does the elites have a provision for a safety glass.
do most hobbiests use safety glass on se bulbs?
Thanks Kevin

[victor90]

The test models do not have any glass I do not known about the released versions

[shelburn61]

Do these accomodate 175w-400w bulbs?

I don't understand the use of dimpled material for aquarium reflectors? Diffusion is great for plants but over water the light should enter at as close to 90 deg as possible to avoid losing light to reflection at the surface...

[victor90]

Yes
The unit I was sent was a SE so you can put any bulb in you want

[hahnmeister]

gcarroll, I dont know that the lumenmax or lumenarc have ever been compared and the results have been anything more than 'so similar it doesnt matter'. I just wonder where you get your opinion that the lumenmax outperforms the lumenarc. I can show data that concludes both for their own reasons. They are so similar in design, and the test results are so similar, I doubt that either one could be considered a better in real world circumstances.

I would point out that lumenarcs seem to have a better feature set. They dont have sheilds because their aluminum doesnt stain from saltwater (unless DE, then you need the sheild). You can get lumenarcs with direct air ducting as well for cooling, something many of us could benefit from.

You can find a greater peak output with the lumenarc, however some of the incidental light values with the lumenmax are higher (and some with the lumanarc are higher as well). Given the degree of error due to the two not being tested in the same time (bulb age, ballasts, etc), concluding that one is better than the other wouldnt be prudent.

These tests are all done in open air grids. Adding the element of the air/water boundary could greatly benefit or handicap one design more than the other. Based on reflector geometry, Im willing to bet on the lumanarc because I believe it sends more of the bulb's output to the water surface as close to perpendicular as possible, for maximum transmission.

As for this new one, maybe Sam at SLS will let me do a grid test on it.

[gcarroll]

Originally posted by hahnmeister
gcarroll, I dont know that the lumenmax or lumenarc have ever been compared and the results have been anything more than 'so similar it doesnt matter'. I just wonder where you get your opinion that the lumenmax outperforms the lumenarc. I can show data that concludes both for their own reasons. They are so similar in design, and the test results are so similar, I doubt that either one could be considered a better in real world circumstances. Hahn- I agree that both are some of the best reflectors made. I also feel that both reflectors excel when used on tanks with a width of 30"+. Where the LumenMax excels past the Lumenarc III is the even light spread that it provides with a minimal hot spot.

Originally posted by hahnmeister
I would point out that lumenarcs seem to have a better feature set. They dont have sheilds because their aluminum doesnt stain from saltwater (unless DE, then you need the sheild). You can get Lumenarcs III with direct air ducting as well for cooling, something many of us could benefit from. Hahn I also agree with you there however most people hang these pendants higher in the canopy, hence salt spray is not so much a factor. Unfortunately, so few people opt for the cooling feature that it is really not much of an issue either. BTW, the Lumenarc III with the cooling option DOES include a glass shield to be used with that option.

Originally posted by hahnmeister
You can find a greater peak output with the lumenarc, however some of the incidental light values with the lumenmax are higher (and some with the lumanarc are higher as well). Given the degree of error due to the two not being tested in the same time (bulb age, ballasts, etc), concluding that one is better than the other wouldnt be prudent.
If you look at the data from Sanjay's tests, the differences in total incidental light greatly favor the LumenMax. In fact the only place the Lumenarc III tested higher in was the 1' by 1' Area and max PAR which shows that the Lumenarc III has a definite hot spot. If the argument can be made that the Lumenarc tested as good as or better than the LumenMax, then the same argument can be made that the 250 watt DE new PFO Mini is as good as or better than the Lumenarc III. After all the new PFO mini outperformed the Lumenarc III in every category that the Lumenarc III bested the LumenMax. Every single one!

Originally posted by hahnmeister
These tests are all done in open air grids. Adding the element of the air/water boundary could greatly benefit or handicap one design more than the other. Based on reflector geometry, Im willing to bet on the lumanarc because I believe it sends more of the bulb's output to the water surface as close to perpendicular as possible, for maximum transmission. I think the same argument can be made for the SLS Reef Optix III or new PFO mini as they also have an obvious hot spot.

Originally posted by hahnmeister
As for this new one, maybe Sam at SLS will let me do a grid test on it. It is my understanding that one has already been sent to Sanjay for testing so I'm sure the same testing protocol will be used as in prior reflector tests.

[Sanjay]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12120476#post12120476 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by gcarroll

It is my understanding that one has already been sent to Sanjay for testing so I'm sure the same testing protocol will be used as in prior reflector tests.

That was my understanding too.. now where is it.. I have not got it yet.

I am in the middle of some tests on the ATI T-5s so I am set up right now to run a couple of reflector tests.

sanjay.

[gcarroll]

Sanjay, they must have sent it out by pack mule!

Hey Sanjay, how bout a test with the Lumenarc mini using 400 watt bulbs? I also like to see tests with the Lumenbright, Lumenbright mini, LumenMax 2, LumenMax 3, and Lumenarc Stealth. I can't help but dream that that those would be included in your next reflector tests. I also know where you could present this data to the public.......

[orangekush4]

I have used Lumenarc back in the diamend days,they are not all that.lumenarcs use reflecters wich are mirror finesh that will have hot spots .The lumenbright using micro fasets on the reflector that will have less hot spots.You guys should look into PL lighting,They mack the best reflectors.

[gcarroll]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12121918#post12121918 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by orangekush4
You guys should look into PL lighting,They mack the best reflectors. Gotta website link?

[orangekush4]

just google it.

[gcarroll]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12122327#post12122327 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by orangekush4
just google it. did that and did not find any MH lighting. I'm just trying to follow up on what you claim is the best. since you know what you are referring to it might be easiest if you point me in the right direction

[fred fishstone]

I found this http://www.pllight.com/ but it's hard to figure how to adapt their product to aquarium use.

[gcarroll]

Thanks for the link. I came up with a company that seemed to only do flourescent lighting. looks interesting. but a lot of the reflectors seem more geared to industral lighting. Some of the reflectors even look like the ones seen on street lamps. I don't really believe everthing I read from a manufacturer so it would be nice to see some data backing up their claims as being the best. They also do not seem readily available at many of the horiculture lighting places.

[victor90]

Ksed- Yes, the Lumen Max Elite has built in glass retainers and sheets of glass will be sold as an option on the SE version.

Shelburn’s post – The light is diffused and light is entering the surface perfectly. This reflector is 96% efficient. Meaning 96% of the light from the lamp is actually exiting the reflector. The Lumen Max 2/3 are barely over 87% efficient and they still perform very well. With the added rays exiting the reflector it becomes very important to examine uniformity. Hot spots created by inferior materials or smooth surfaces like Miro 4 would cause deadly hot spots with this pendant. Thus the use of Alanod Miro 9 (9033) The rays are entering the surface of the water exactly how we designed them to enter. Very little light is lost to surface reflection. It’s a non-factor… The proof is in the test data.

[hahnmeister]

Are you sure you dont mean the material used is 96% reflective? Usually, the material, like Miro 4 for example, is 94-96% reflective, as in, if you have a flat sheet of the material and bounce a ray off of it, it will keep all but 4-6% of its intensity. This means nothing as far as the geometry is concerned though... just the material.

[ksed]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12123188#post12123188 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by ATB USA
Ksed- Yes, the Lumen Max Elite has built in glass retainers and sheets of glass will be sold as an option on the SE version.

Shelburn’s post – The light is diffused and light is entering the surface perfectly. This reflector is 96% efficient. Meaning 96% of the light from the lamp is actually exiting the reflector. The Lumen Max 2/3 are barely over 87% efficient and they still perform very well. With the added rays exiting the reflector it becomes very important to examine uniformity. Hot spots created by inferior materials or smooth surfaces like Miro 4 would cause deadly hot spots with this pendant. Thus the use of Alanod Miro 9 (9033) The rays are entering the surface of the water exactly how we designed them to enter. Very little light is lost to surface reflection. It’s a non-factor… The proof is in the test data.
SLS states that the LumenMax 2-3 reflectors are 95% reflective.
How is it that they are 87% now?

[ksed]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12114102#post12114102 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by hahnmeister
gcarroll, I dont know that the lumenmax or lumenarc have ever been compared and the results have been anything more than 'so similar it doesnt matter'. I just wonder where you get your opinion that the lumenmax outperforms the lumenarc. I can show data that concludes both for their own reasons. They are so similar in design, and the test results are so similar, I doubt that either one could be considered a better in real world circumstances.

I would point out that lumenarcs seem to have a better feature set. They dont have sheilds because their aluminum doesnt stain from saltwater (unless DE, then you need the sheild). You can get lumenarcs with direct air ducting as well for cooling, something many of us could benefit from.

You can find a greater peak output with the lumenarc, however some of the incidental light values with the lumenmax are higher (and some with the lumanarc are higher as well). Given the degree of error due to the two not being tested in the same time (bulb age, ballasts, etc), concluding that one is better than the other wouldnt be prudent.

These tests are all done in open air grids. Adding the element of the air/water boundary could greatly benefit or handicap one design more than the other. Based on reflector geometry, Im willing to bet on the lumanarc because I believe it sends more of the bulb's output to the water surface as close to perpendicular as possible, for maximum transmission.

As for this new one, maybe Sam at SLS will let me do a grid test on it.
Only Lumenarcs have this salt resistant feature?
If so what coating does it have?

[ksed]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12123188#post12123188 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by ATB USA
Ksed- Yes, the Lumen Max Elite has built in glass retainers and sheets of glass will be sold as an option on the SE version.

Shelburn’s post – The light is diffused and light is entering the surface perfectly. This reflector is 96% efficient. Meaning 96% of the light from the lamp is actually exiting the reflector. The Lumen Max 2/3 are barely over 87% efficient and they still perform very well. With the added rays exiting the reflector it becomes very important to examine uniformity. Hot spots created by inferior materials or smooth surfaces like Miro 4 would cause deadly hot spots with this pendant. Thus the use of Alanod Miro 9 (9033) The rays are entering the surface of the water exactly how we designed them to enter. Very little light is lost to surface reflection. It’s a non-factor… The proof is in the test data.
SLS states that the LumenMax 2-3 reflectors are 95% reflective.
How is it that they are 87% now?

[ksed]

sorry for the double post

[Sanjay]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12121069#post12121069 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by gcarroll
Sanjay, they must have sent it out by pack mule!

Hey Sanjay, how bout a test with the Lumenarc mini using 400 watt bulbs? I also like to see tests with the Lumenbright, Lumenbright mini, LumenMax 2, LumenMax 3, and Lumenarc Stealth. I can't help but dream that that those would be included in your next reflector tests. I also know where you could present this data to the public.......

Greg:

I have data on the following at 24 and 30":

- Lumenarc III
- Big Lumen Max
- LumenMax DE
- LumenBright

I don't have any of the others you mention.

End of semester and Summer time is comming up in 8 more weeks and I plan on doing some tests early in the summer when I will have a lot more time.

sanjay.

[victor90]

I just spoke with Sam at Sunlight Supply and he explained this to me… The reflector material is 95% reflective on BOTH the Lumen Max Elite and the LumenMax 2/3. The efficiency of the reflector is what has improved. For instance, picture a lamp running free of obstruction in an open room. 100% of the light is used, making it 100% efficient. Our aquariums are only directly below the lamp, making it nearly impossible to direct 100% of the light from to the aquarium. The lumenMax Elite directs 94.6% of the light from the lamp out of the reflector. Thus the term 94.6% efficient… This figure does not account for the reflectivity of the material used. Alanod Miro 4, 7, and 9, essentially keeps 5% of the light. (95% reflective)

[ksed]

Thanks for the clarification. That makes sense.
Do you know if the lumenmax reflectors are salt resistant like the lumenarcs.
Thanks Kevin

[victor90]

How would I tell if their salt resistant?

[shelburn61]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12123188#post12123188 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by ATB USA

Shelburn’s post – The light is diffused and light is entering the surface perfectly. This reflector is 96% efficient. Meaning 96% of the light from the lamp is actually exiting the reflector. The Lumen Max 2/3 are barely over 87% efficient and they still perform very well. With the added rays exiting the reflector it becomes very important to examine uniformity. Hot spots created by inferior materials or smooth surfaces like Miro 4 would cause deadly hot spots with this pendant. Thus the use of Alanod Miro 9 (9033) The rays are entering the surface of the water exactly how we designed them to enter. Very little light is lost to surface reflection. It’s a non-factor… The proof is in the test data.

As I said before, light rays penetrate the water surface best at 90 degrees - more light is lost to reflection as the angle increases. The dimpled surface is great for diffusion in air but it means the light is coming off at all kinds of crazy angles.

The data you are referencing doesn't address this issue because it was measured in air rather than at the bottom of an aquarium. 94.6% means nothing until it reaches the coral. Seems the flat reflector material used in the LA3 might be better for our application to actually direct the light into the aquarium?

[hahnmeister]

Thats my hunch. For every little dimple that diffuses the light in various directions to help the 'spread' or diffusion, there will be some aimed right back at the bulb or some other useless angle. In short, there is less control of the light. The dimples provide diffusion, but dont you think that having 17 facets would do that job pretty well in the first place? If not, the ripples on the surface of the water are going to make that a pretty mute point. The thing is, yes, the lumenarc keeps the light 'polarized' in a way... as in, its not being scattered in every which way by all the little dimples... so more of the light will enter the water closer to perpendicular than at an angle.

I think this might be an example where 'open air' tests have a different result than the 'underwater' ones, assuming the lumenmax can match or improve on its original results.

As for the convergence or divergence of the light (the hot spots seen previous with the LA3/3mini vs. LM), it could be as simple as the bulb needing to be lowered a little bit in the reflector, since the bulb position in the reflector is adjustable.

[victor90]

Jon

Did you get yours yet?

[hahnmeister]

no, Sammy no call backy.

[gcarroll]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12179300#post12179300 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by hahnmeister
As for the convergence or divergence of the light (the hot spots seen previous with the LA3/3mini vs. LM), it could be as simple as the bulb needing to be lowered a little bit in the reflector, since the bulb position in the reflector is adjustable. I was not aware that the Lumenarc has moguls that were adjustable any way other than to center the bulb. I did not know that the depth of the bulb in the reflector was adjustable.

I always felt the depth of the reflector was the major difference between the Lumenarc vs the Lumenmax The Lumenmax being a much shallower reflector.

BTW, do you plan to perform an underwater grid test of the reflector?

[hahnmeister]

I didnt plan on it. I would have to whip out the 300g rubbermaid stock tank for that, make an underwater grid, etc. PITA pretty much.

Something Sanjay and i have chatted a bit about is how using a ray trace program might aid in these situations. You could put the respective geometry of a reflector into the program, and then play with things like the incidental output, or add a layer of density change like water. The truth is, there is no simple way to do it. The depth of the tank and its respective sidewall dimensions will augment the light, as well as rock placement. What it starts to come down to is being able to see the ray tracing (or in the case with hammertone, an integral sort of ray tracing), as the incidental light values dont tell the whole story of how the reflector will really work over water because you dont know the angles that the light is travelling.

In the end, going on a hunch here, but it might just be valid and worth it to mount the reflectors sideways in a room, and take some point readings at the axis of each at a distance of say... 20'-30' where the source will start to behave like a point source again. Sure, there is still a 'spread', but it will tell you a bit about which reflector has more of its output going perpendicular to the water layer. I wanted to ask Sanjay though if he felt this would be a valid way of doing it. The thing is, a reflector like the lumenbright might have such a hot spot or a central beam that it would end up winning even though this alone may not indicate it to be a superior reflector. So a few points would have to be taken again and an incidental value taken.

[kblack3]

is white reflective material better then the shiney stuff? Any specs on it

[hahnmeister]

No, its good, but not that good.

[kblack3]

I'd love to see specs cause white is 100% reflective where those reflectors retain a gray color. Anybody have any specs?

[RedEyeElf]

http://www.sdreefs.com/forums/showthread.php?t=38001&page=2&highlight=Lumen+max+elite
Post 19

[hahnmeister]

Yeah.... um... about that SD reef thread and its reported higher output: I can think of 5 spots on a PFO mini-pendant that will give 200% higher output than a lumenarc... that doesnt make it a better reflector.

Those are Victor's pictures alright though...

[gcarroll]

I got one of mine this weekend! :D I unfortunaltely will wait until the other two arrive before installing. Should be a couple more weeks.

[kblack3]

do they have an actual release date and price for the elite yet?

[hiepatitis]

Victor let me borrow his LME (thanks). I received a new LM2 pendant and decided to put them side by side for visual comparison. All photos take under the same manual settings.

Top left is LM2 using 250w Reeflux12k
Top right is LME using 250w Reeflux 12k
Bottom right is LM2 using 400w Aquaconnect 14k
Bottom left is LME using 400w Aquaconnect 14k

http://i71.photobucket.com/albums/i131/hiepatitis/lights.jpg

You can see the LME has a larger spread and higher intensity despite the LM2 being a very decent reflector.

[victor90]

Talking to sunlight we should have a kind of idea of the release date tomorrow

[TeeLapia]

I was told within 6 weeks, so an actual release date would be great. So I can stop holding my breath already!

[gcarroll]

6 weeks more. Gosh dangit, I still need 2 more. I guess I'll just put my brand new 400 watt Aquaconnects on Ice til then.

[Lagger]

Nice! LMK how you like the AC's Greg.....

[gcarroll]

no prob John. BTW, isn't your tank a cube? Wanna try a new reflector?

[BreadmanMike]

hiepatitis or anyone else that can answer. :D


The LM2 seems to have a more elongated spread. Is that how it is or is it just the picture fooling me?

I ask because I currently have two large LA3's centered on my 48x48 tank. The coverage is great, but I'd like to use some 14.5k Gmann's to supplement the Helios I'm running so it isn't so blue. I'm trying to find a reflector that will go on either side of the LA3's and cover as much area as possible without spilling too much out of the front. I'd like to do this without having to use four setups.
I was thinking the RO1's or RO3's might be the best depending on which route I take, but if the LM's have an elongated spread I'll go that route.

Here is a pic to give you an idea. I no longer have the tek lights, so that is where the reflectors will go.
http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d11/aquaticman74/IMG_0453.jpg

[kiran523]

Any updates?

[gcarroll]

They are now available and in full production.

[Lagger]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12448524#post12448524 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by gcarroll
no prob John. BTW, isn't your tank a cube? Wanna try a new reflector?

Man, I need to learn to read between the lines a little better! :hammer:

That reflector looked sweet over your frag tank on Sun Greg.....with that spread it couldve almost lit my styrofoam cups! :lol:

[ganjero]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12635994#post12635994 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by gcarroll
They are now available and in full production.
Available where?

[jtarmitage]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12753050#post12753050 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by ganjero
Available where?

Aquarium Specialty. They've just been cut and are being assembled this week, and hope to start shipping late in the week or next week.

[kdblove_99]

can't wait. I would also like to see what Sanjay comes up with data wise later this summer

[ct_vol]

Reef Geek is also carrying them...

[ganjero]

any updates? PAR measurements?

[kdblove_99]

Taking way too long

[victor90]

Kd

Did you get yours yet?

[kdblove_99]

nope, Nothing. can't believe they are taking so long. I emailed Greg at reefgeek on the 30th and he had not received any yet.

I emailed him again today and am just waiting to see if they received them yet

[kdblove_99]

I have been told they are all ready but Sunlight is just waiting for packaging, pretty annoying. But oh well:)

[kdblove_99]

just got an email from Greg. The Elite has been shipped:)

[victor90]

Kd
These things put out some serious light, is it for your cube?

[kdblove_99]

Yeah, I have a Full lumenarc on it now.

[gregorfd]

What is the recommended distance from the water for these pendants? I think I have since the lumanarcs can be hung 9-12 inches, the lumenbright 13+inches.

[RokleM]

Anyone have comparisons of how different the spread is from the LumenMax 2's? I have a 180 with two LumenMax2's, and am moving to a 48"x36"x28 tall. My hunch is I could really use a wider light spread.

[victor90]

The elites were designed to light up a 2ft by 2ft area extremely bright

[BigJay]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12924860#post12924860 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by RokleM
Anyone have comparisons of how different the spread is from the LumenMax 2's? I have a 180 with two LumenMax2's, and am moving to a 48"x36"x28 tall. My hunch is I could really use a wider light spread.

I'm curious to see the comparison of the new elites versus the new LumenMax 2/3's.

The entire LumenMax line has been updated to use the new elite hammertone material. The new LumenMax 2 pendants I ordered are working great. I'd love to test this out sometime with a PAR meter.

http://i305.photobucket.com/albums/nn239/akenitzki/LumenMax.jpg

[kiran523]

I've really been waiting for some measurements. Sanjay Joshi has had the Lumen Max Elite's for quite a while according to my discussion with a person at sunlight supply. I'm trying do decide which way to go for my new tank which is 48 x 30 x 30. Being 30" wide and deep, I need spread and penetration.

[Ness]

I saw them in action on multiple tanks at a LFS configured in different ways, and the light spread is pretty wide and intense all over. One thing I noticed though is the mogul side tends to lean slightly lower making them look a little crooked when mounted.

[GSMguy]

these pendants rock my LFS switched out their lumenmax3s for these and they are much brighter and great spread.

[jtarmitage]

A word of caution when switching to these new reflectors, they push ALOT more light all the way to the bottom of the tank. I have a number of favias and challices that started to bleach even though they were placed up to a foot deeper in the tank than they were with the full sized Lumenarcs. BIG difference in light penetration.:D

[GSMguy]

my tank is only a foot deep ;)

[jtarmitage]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=13093847#post13093847 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by GSMguy
my tank is only a foot deep ;)

Mine is 30". I still have to shade my lower light corals.:eek2:

[kiran523]

Are you using 250's or 400's? My new tank is 30" deep as well.

[jtarmitage]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=13096749#post13096749 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by kiran523
Are you using 250's or 400's? My new tank is 30" deep as well.

250's. Under normal circumstances, a 30" tank is borderline between 250 and 400. If you plan on keeping lower light corals like Acan's, Favia's, chalices, etc. you can use 250's comfortably. With these new Elites, I really don't see any need for 400's even if you're keeping high light SPS way down low.

[DT's_Reef]

Hmmm, guess my corals are going to need sunglasses in the 38Lx28Wx20H I'm lighting with a single 400w radium/e-galaxy ballast + lumen max elite.

[kiran523]

I procured a PFO dual 400 ballast with the intention of using them on my new tank. It looks like I may be good using my ice cap 250 e-ballast's instead. Well, I don't think anyone would mind a lower electricity bill.

[tkeracer619]

I made a set of these with another local reefer about 10 months ago. They are awesome! I use 4 250w SE to light a 360 sps reef 96Lx36Dx24H

http://img338.imageshack.us/img338/3096/71ad3.jpg

Here is a small frag I got a couple months back. 100% grown under these lights. 20" under the surface with 12k reeflux 250w.

http://img142.imageshack.us/img142/9983/spsgrowthin8.jpg

Would be nice to have a set of manufactured reflectors but I needed a custom size. Glad to see others like the hammertone as much as I do.

[Shawn D]

How high should you mount these above the water?

[kdblove_99]

mine is around 11". also i can put my hand anywhere on the outside of the reflector and is not hot or even warm

[Shawn D]

Do you measure from the bulb or the bottom of the reflector?

[tmantaylor18]

I have been using these for a little over a month and they are intense. I can't keep a lot of my corals on the sand bed without having to be in the shade.

[Emster]

I'm looking for a 150watt HQI version. Does anyone know if they are planning on coming out with this one? Or if you could point me in the right direction to find this out. Thanks for any info.

[victor90]

Emster<
I will ask Sam today at Macna

[Emster]

Cool! thank you very much!

[victor90]

talk to sls a 150de will not be made

[Shadowramy]

Just got some of these, using them with 400w Reeflux 12K and Icecap ballast on a 48x23x24 tank.

I get a "spotlight" effect right under the bulbs inside the tank.

Currently have these about 7" from the base of the reflector from the waterline - think I need to raise them??

[gcarroll]

I would at least raise them to 12"

[livingstone]

While this thread is hot--I've pretty much decided I like these Lumen Max Elites but I'll be using a single one on a 36x36" tank. I figure I'll raise it until it covers the area nicely. If I have clams based at 21" down, as well as SPS and other corals in the tank, do you think I'll do well with a 250 watt or will I need to raise it up enough to need a 400? Your opinion please.

Thanks

[hahnmeister]

I would suggest the lumenarc 3 foe a 36x36 tank for the better spread.

[livingstone]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=13472198#post13472198 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by hahnmeister
I would suggest the lumenarc 3 foe a 36x36 tank for the better spread.

Do you know if that's good German aluminum like the Lumen Max?

Thanks

[livingstone]

Oh. Never mind. I see the Anometal label on the Lumenarc 3 reflector pic. I would rather go with the German than the Chinese.

Thanks though.

[Harley-J]

I was hoping I could get some opinions..I have the dual 250w Sunlight Supply and just upgraded my tank size to 135g..Measurements are 72" X 18" X 24"...I am hoping to stay with just the dual for this tank..
What reflector do you think would give me better coverage?
Lumenarc minis
Lumenbright minis
Lumenmax elites??
I was thinking of the Elites but am afraid of a spotlight effect..
Thanks guys...I just keep going back and forth on this...

[jtarmitage]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=13578563#post13578563 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Harley-J
I was hoping I could get some opinions..I have the dual 250w Sunlight Supply and just upgraded my tank size to 135g..Measurements are 72" X 18" X 24"...I am hoping to stay with just the dual for this tank..
What reflector do you think would give me better coverage?
Lumenarc minis
Lumenbright minis
Lumenmax elites??
I was thinking of the Elites but am afraid of a spotlight effect..
Thanks guys...I just keep going back and forth on this...

Unless you raise the reflectors really high, I don't think that any of them will work. The Lumenbrights will be the worst, as they focus the light into a tighter spread than the other 2. I've got 3 elites on an 80" tank, and there's no way I'd even consider only using 2 because of the spotlight effect. I can't see how that would be any different for the Lumenarc minis.

[Harley-J]

Thanks jtarmitage..I just told the wife that no worries, I wouldnt have to add any additional wattage and cost for lighting, if I just went a "little" over my 90g dems... :D wouldnt be the first time she has heard that!!

[jtarmitage]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=13578730#post13578730 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Harley-J
Thanks jtarmitage..I just told the wife that no worries, I wouldnt have to add any additional wattage and cost for lighting, if I just went a "little" over my 90g dems... :D wouldnt be the first time she has heard that!!


:lol: Been there, done that! Good luck breaking it to her!

[Harley-J]

Not today...Im gonna do what I always do...wait till she notices!! :D
Then tell her I got a really good deal from the guys on RC!!
Well back to drawing board...

[Harley-J]

I just realized that in the middle of my new tank is the large 20" glass center brace...right where my third Elite would go...do you think that since this is a stronger reflector, that I would have any problems with cracks in the glass? and if not, do you think I would lose alot of the light due to the center brace?
Just never seen one as large as this one...
Thanks guys...

[THE GIMP]

I am thinking about pulling the trigger on a set of these. Any recent thoughts on this product?

Currently, I am using two 175 w 15k Iwakis, a 250 radium, and 4x54watt PCs on spider reflectors. I'd like to get the Elites and ditch the PCs, which I run for 12 hours a day, and use two 4' T5s 100% actinic for sundown for the last hour only and cut down on my power consumption. Is that possible?

Nice Ride HJ!
Thanks in advance.

[Harley-J]

Thanks Gimp...Just one more thing with an IV to my wallet!!

[jtarmitage]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=13581240#post13581240 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Harley-J
I just realized that in the middle of my new tank is the large 20" glass center brace...right where my third Elite would go...do you think that since this is a stronger reflector, that I would have any problems with cracks in the glass? and if not, do you think I would lose alot of the light due to the center brace?
Just never seen one as large as this one...
Thanks guys...

I wouldn't think that it will damage the glass brace, but then it may depend on how much space is between the reflector and the brace, or if there is adequate airflow to keep it cool. You'll certainly lose some PAR because of the brace, but consider it equivalent to glass shielding on a DE setup. Less efficient, yet still worthwhile. Plus, if your primary consideration is avoiding the spotlight effect, it'll still help. It may even be a great area to put some of your moderate light corals like LPS, as a centerpiece to the tank without blasting them with too much light.

[Harley-J]

Thanks jtarmitage, I plan on keeping them about 11" to 12" above the water line. Great analogy on the glass shielding for DE...I will have fans in the canopy and I will touch test the glass...Hopefully all will be well!!

[skriz]

the glass wil be more apt to crack by the rapid heating and cooling of the glass rather than just heating the glass alone. BUT, if you have the reflector 11-12" off the glass anyway, you won't have an issue. Mine LM is closer than that and I have no issues.

[Harley-J]

Cool skriz...makes me feel a little better that you have yours closer and there are no issues...Thanks for the input...

[blakeorme]

Anybody using these without a canopy? I wanted to hang them over a Rimless 150wide and was interested in if there was considerable glare. The fixture doesn't seem overly deep; the tank sits right next to the TV.

[tmantaylor18]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=13750394#post13750394 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by blakeorme
Anybody using these without a canopy? I wanted to hang them over a Rimless 150wide and was interested in if there was considerable glare. The fixture doesn't seem overly deep; the tank sits right next to the TV.

Yeah man I have mine hanging in my dining room and there is some glare but not to bad. My tank is pretty tall though and you can see the bottom of the reflectors.

[blakeorme]

Thanks. Would have made the plunge today, but they didn't have the dual 250watt galaxy in stock. next week.

[blakeorme]

How did you hang yours. I can't seem to figure it out. The include hardware is a puzzle to me. 2 eye hooks and 2 bolts. DO I use the hole on the socket, or the two on top of the reflector. I just have a single wire hanging done that I was going to run through the 2 eye hooks. The fixture doesn't even come close to hanging level with this setup. Do the cords need to be attatch to the wall so they aren't pulling it down. Pics would be awesome.

[ryannat1]

Any updates? Later Ryan

[blakeorme]

I wondered around Home Depot for an hour looking for a solution. I think its become my study. The moonlights were an after thought. My plan was to attatch them to the back of the tank but this turned out waaayyyy cooler. I can aim there where ever I please.

http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h253/blakeorme/P1011425.jpg
http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h253/blakeorme/P1011427.jpg
http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h253/blakeorme/P1011426.jpg
http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h253/blakeorme/P1011426.jpg
http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h253/blakeorme/P1011426.jpg

[blakeorme]

Sorry... First time posting pics.

http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h253/blakeorme/P1011430.jpg

FTS:
http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h253/blakeorme/P1011428.jpg

[ryannat1]

Nice setup man! That rock work is awesome!! Later Ryan

[agsansoo]

blakeorme, great setup ! Were did you get the moolights ? I've been trying to solve this problem in my tank.

[THE GIMP]

Looks great Blakeorme. Nicely done. I just put a set in yesterday, but it needs to be tuned up. Are we sapposed to mount the socket perpendicular to the tank or did you do that for looks?

[blakeorme]

I just mounted the lights perpendicular for asthetics and ease of running the wires. I'm sure you can do either. I would recommend the glass shields for the Lumen elites. I wish I had purchased those along with the reflectors. The moonlights are made by Coralife.
thanks for the positive feedback.

[murfman]

Anyone get par readings in the water at depth?

[victor90]

I actually did take par readings I believe they are posted in this thread

[murfman]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12077545#post12077545 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by ATB USA
Both light reading were taken right in the middle of the reflector with a yard stic stuck right next to the bulb using a brand new Milwaukee sm700.
3 readings were taken for better accuracy
multiply all by 100Lux
Lumenmax 8" from the bulb reading1 670 666 671
16" 187 184 183
35" 80 83 84

Lumenarc
8" 185 188 189
16" 85 89 86
35" 24 24 22

Is this under water or in air?

[victor90]

The readings were underwater

[murfman]

Thanks.

[DT's_Reef]

I've been using the 400w Radium/Galaxy combo with a Lumenmax Elite on my 38x26x20 tank and think I need to go down to 250w. I've had the tank going for over a month and started out with a short photo period (3 hours) but find whenever I move it to even 4 hours, I have corals begin to bleach. My understanding is the 250w Radium is a bit more blue than the 400w, which is a bummer as the 400w is about as blue as I can stand. But, I want my corals to be healthy so will do whatever I need to.

[GSMguy]

run the 250w radium on an m-80 like the blue wave or an oceanlight ballast will not be too blue..,

[DT's_Reef]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=14230886#post14230886 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by GSMguy
run the 250w radium on an m-80 like the blue wave or an oceanlight ballast will not be too blue..,

I assume it's typically more blue on an electric ballast vs. magnetic because the magnetic overdrives it.

I know the 400w Galaxy e-ballast overdrives the Radium bulb because it uses around 430 watts via a watt meter.

Perhaps the Galaxy 250w e-ballast will overdrive the 250w Radium as well....and hopefully be a bit more white?

[DT's_Reef]

Well, I ran to Ali's and got a 250w Radium and Galaxy ballast. Interestingly, the light is *slightly* less blue than the 400w Radium with Galaxy Ballast, at least to my eye. It's not quite as bright, but that's not shocker. I put a watt mater on it and it's running at 274 watts, so it's being slightly overdriven. The 400w Galaxy ballast was driving the 400w Radium right around 430 watts as I recall.

[murfman]

Do you have any PAR numbers, DT? I am really interested since my tank is 30" deep.

[GSMguy]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=14231703#post14231703 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by DT's_Reef
I assume it's typically more blue on an electric ballast vs. magnetic because the magnetic overdrives it.

I know the 400w Galaxy e-ballast overdrives the Radium bulb because it uses around 430 watts via a watt meter.

Perhaps the Galaxy 250w e-ballast will overdrive the 250w Radium as well....and hopefully be a bit more white?


No, the m-80 ballast is spec for the 250w Se bulbs. It does NOT overdrive them....

The 400w bulb spec is 380w everything is overdriving them.

[DT's_Reef]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=14237653#post14237653 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by GSMguy
No, the m-80 ballast is spec for the 250w Se bulbs. It does NOT overdrive them....

The 400w bulb spec is 380w everything is overdriving them.

I'm confused then. Sanjay's page says the M80 ballast drives a 250w SE Radium at 333 watts. Or...do you mean the 250w SE Radium is built to be driven at 333 watts, but is called 250w in name only?

[GSMguy]

Allot of single ended bulbs are HQI spec most m-80 ballasts run between 270-320w, bulbs like the 250w radium, ushio single ended and even the helios bulbs are meant to be used with m-80 ballasts, some will not fire at all with m-58 ballasts.

[Creetin]

I went with the DE elites. They are grossly better than the luminarcs. I fried a couple sps with em, and had to cut the time down to 2 hrs a day and slowly bring it up. I am about 4 hrs now, and still ****ing some stuff off.

[DT's_Reef]

The switch from 400w Radium to 250w Radium definitely was the right choice. I've been out of town and just got back tonight and have more new growth and better color because the photo period is longer (5 hours vs. 3 hours). I'm very pleased :)

[usfpaul82]

hello, I am considering purchasing one of these for a 65 gallon (36x18x24). It would be mounted in the center of a canopy. The canopy's top sits about 12" from the top of the tank. Will this work ok for me? Thanks

[victor90]

You will have some shaded areas the reflector was designed for a 2 foot by 2 foot square

[usfpaul82]

Thanks. Would you recommomrnd a different reflector for this tank? If so, which one?

[victor90]

if you are only going to use one i would get a lumenarc or coralvue's lumenbrite which have more of a spread

[usfpaul82]

do you think the lumenarc stealth hqi will give more spread than the lumen max elite? Thanks for your help.

[victor90]

I do not have experience with that reflector
I have only used the lumenarc se, lumenbrites, and the lumenmax elite

[Tangwich]

hello, i just bought and received 2 LME reflectors yesterday and will be running 250w radiums with dual galaxy ballast. Tank dimensions are 72"24"30". My questions are:
1) my canopy is 12", will that be enough space to have a good spread from the reflectors or will I get a spotlight effect?
2) Can't figure out how to install on my wood canopy using the eyehooks and bolts. Any pictures on how to do this? Are screws necessary in installing? thanks for any and all help you can provide.

[victor90]

Your tank is almost the same dimensions as mine you will have the middle part of the tank will have shady spots. It has a mouting plate that you attached first with some screws then you slide the reflector onto the mounting plate. If the top of your canopy is open go get a 1x4x 72 piece of wood to attach it to. They were also designing it to be hung but my prototype didn't hang to well

[Tangwich]

great thanks for the info...so first i have to remove the mounting plate and screw that in with regular screws and then slide the reflector on to the mounting plate? is that right?

[Tangwich]

great thanks for the info...so first i have to remove the mounting plate and screw that in with regular screws and then slide the reflector on to the mounting plate? is that right?

[chewie]

yes.

[Tangwich]

thanks again chewie..i guess its kinda hard to envision it seeing while at work..
i just am not sure how it will work since the screws will be upside down when i put up the reflectors

[chewie]

No Problem.

The way they mount is the ONLY gripe I have about them.

[Tangwich]

well that's good if that's the ONLY gripe...because that tells me that once they are up, there won't be other problems..
another question..do you mount them parrallel or perpendicular to the canopy?

[victor90]

I mounted mine with the bulb parrallel to the tank

[Tangwich]

that's what i was thinking..thanks

[victor90]

you will love it if mine tank was reef still i would have three of them

[jwilliams860]

Quick question ATB since you have experience with both, I have a 300 gallon tank 96" x 30" x 24", since its 30 wide wondering if lumen max elites or lumenbrites would be better, I currently have a 120 AGA 24" wide, and have 2 lumenbrites over it, and love them, so I would only need two more, or should I go with the elites over the 300 since they produce a wider spread for the wider tank

[victor90]

The lumenmax elites do not have a wider spread their light is designed to be concentrated in a 2 foot by 2 foot area. They are amazingly bright in that area. I forget what the reading were but they are posted. Maybe you could mix them and then put the corals that require more light under the elites.

[GSMguy]

if you want spread the lumenmax 3 or lumenarc would be the way to go,

[livingstone]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=14577521#post14577521 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by GSMguy
if you want spread the lumenmax 3 or lumenarc would be the way to go,

Yes. Sunlight Supply 'personally' recommended their Lumenmax 3 over the Elite for coverage of a single reflector over my 36x36" tank.

[eaglesrx]

thinking about my next upgrade. Wondering if anyone has pics and/or experience with using the elite reflectors with 250W bulbs over a 24 inch high SPS tank? Planning on 2 reflectors over a 48x24x24, 120g tank.

Based on Sanjay's review and some of the threads on reefcentral, seems like it should be similar in terms of growth and color for SPS to a 400W bulb w/a good reflector (lumenarc, etc).

Thanks!

[victor90]

I did use 250 watt bulbs over a 28 inch high tank. The light was so bright on the sand that algae grew on my sand

[DT's_Reef]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=14580157#post14580157 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by eaglesrx
thinking about my next upgrade. Wondering if anyone has pics and/or experience with using the elite reflectors with 250W bulbs over a 24 inch high SPS tank? Planning on 2 reflectors over a 48x24x24, 120g tank.

Based on Sanjay's review and some of the threads on reefcentral, seems like it should be similar in terms of growth and color for SPS to a 400W bulb w/a good reflector (lumenarc, etc).

Thanks!

That should be plenty. As Vic said, the bright spot is really bright and that's how it is in my 20" tall tank. I initially had a 400w radium and switched it to the 250w. I have to make certain my SPS get plenty of food so they don't bleach. I have my bulb exactly 15" off the water from bottom of bulb, to the water line.

[eaglesrx]

thanks everyone. what's the PAR for your tank DT's_reef? any pics with the 250W?

[jlt23]

Would three 250W LME be too much for a standard 180G mixed tank? Or should I go with two and supplement with T5's?

[victor90]

actaually it would be great i didn't do that because my pg&e was around 400 a month

[broke1]

I am in the market for new lights and this thread came up in the search for the reflectors.

The tank is 48"x36"x27". With the floating canopy that I have planned, I will only have room for 2 full size reflectors. I do have two 660 ballasts that may have 4 VHO/T5 lights fired over it. I should be able to fit 8 if needed, but power consumption is always an issue.

I have been shopping for 400w lights, but I know that I am kind of on the edge of the 250/400w mark.

The more coverage I can get from the MH lights, the less T5s or VHOs I will need.

Which of these would be a better reflector for covergae of an SPS tank with the 36" front to back demension?

[jlt23]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=14650409#post14650409 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by ATB USA
actaually it would be great i didn't do that because my pg&e was around 400 a month
Thanks. I've never had MH before so this will be an interesting experience...especially with the electricity bill.

[cayenne]

Very interesting thread. I've read it front to back twice now.

I am thinking about putting three of these @ 250W over my new tank which has a foot print of 72"x36"(wide)x27"(deep)... Two things have me concerned though, I only have 10" in the canopy which means I won't be able to get maximum height out of the reflector, so I am worried about getting a spotlight effect, and serious shadowing with a 36" wide tank.

[Reefer08]

How many inches do you guys have your LME placed above your tank? Im thinking about switching my lumenbright for one of these.

[gcarroll]

Ramsey, I have one you can try out to verify that you like it before you buy it. Let me knkow.

[Reefer08]

Cool! Thats very nice of you Greg! When can I come over your house to pick it up? Im hating my lumenbright, it literally directs light straight downwards absolutely no light spread lol.

[gcarroll]

This reflector will not be the answer to your problems but I will let you make up you own mind on that one.

[Nerdy Nudi]

anyone have this reflector on a nano? specifically a cube like the 20" solana???

[discotu]

does anyone know if it's possible to convert the LME to accept 150W DE bulbs?

[ECFENCING]

Greg

Was hoping to get your input here. I'm about to pull the trigger on the LME de mainly since it has a smaller footprint 11.5x11.5x5 versus the SE version which is 15x15.

My tank specs are 48x24x20high and I only have a max distance of 14" off of the water to hang the pendant

Leaning toward single ended only because of more bulb choices.

Also considering the lumen bright mini wide and was hoping that someone could chime in here if they have experience with both.

Would using the coralvue ballasts simply because of the dimmable feature on them with the LMEs be ok? but don't know if that's adviseable.

I've talked to both Victor and Steve
Both great guys.

Need to pull the trigger soon since I'm borrowing my friends reef optix iii reflectors

I have a mixed reef mostly caps acans zoas rbta candy cane hydnophora leathers and
millis

Thanks in advance for your help

[spsfarmer09]

what would be better for my 35x 20 x 18 sps tank . Lumenbright or lumenmax

[ECFENCING]

This thread is dead. Hopefully it will be revived soon.

I've gone to t5s but if I were to go back I would be going with the
Lumenmax elites mogul and galaxy ballast simply because
The LBs are so much bigger and I don't have the height. Don't think you could go
Wrong either way.

[cmm1970]

I retrofit my rig with LB's last year. Makes for a very tall canopy. My wife and I are contemplating a move to a 180gallon tank which I would build a hood for. What height is recommended for mounting the LUmenmax Elite reflectors off the water?

[cmm1970]

I emailed the Lumenmax Elite folks and they indicated that for a 24" tall tank running 400W lamps that the reflector should be 14" from the water to illuminate the floor of the tank properly. Hope this helps some of you.

[USC-fan]

I was looking to get an DE elite 250

Can this cover a 120 cube? [30x30]

Doesnt seem to be many big de reflectors.

[victor90]

It will work but you will have some dim spots the lumen max elite was designed for a 24 by 24 area

[DT's_Reef]

I was looking to get an DE elite 250

Can this cover a 120 cube? [30x30]

Doesnt seem to be many big de reflectors.


I use a 250w SE with a Lumenmax Elite on my 38x26x20 tank and it works great on my SPS system. It's not ideal because it does dim a bit at the last 6" of the tank, but from front to back it's perfect.

My SPS look fantastic and are growing nicely. I simply put my highest light corals in the middle-ish area, and the others in the margin.

However, a multi-lamp set-up can be very nice because you get more light bouncing around in all directions so the corals color nicely not just from a top-down perspective (I believe T5 is very nice for that...but I love MH too much!)

[autodave]

DT-How high do you have your reflector off your tank?

[DT's_Reef]

15" from the water to the bottom of the bulb.

[autodave]

DT-Can I ask what type of bulb your using also?Thanks

[DT's_Reef]

250w radium +galaxy ballast

[mnestroy]

How do I adjust the mogule on this unit?

I just read on the reflux websit that my bulb should have the nipple pointed upwards.

If i screw the bulb into the socket it faces downward, If i try to dial it back the bulb dangles lossely in the socket.

What screws do i need to adjust?

Thanks!!