Inexpensive LED for 120g FOWLR

[xxnonamexx]

What LED unit do you recommend that is inexpensive for a FOWLR 120g. I have seen so many crazy ideas but pricing is from 500-700

[ROBONE20]

I've been researching options for my FOWLR, too. I was looking at these but I want to see them in person (look it up on Drs. Foster Smith website).
AquaticLife Expandable LED Light Fixtures
- or these -
Current USA TrueLumen Pro LED Striplights

I have seen the Current ones in person and they are very bright. I'm waiting for the prices to go down or when they go on sale.

[xxnonamexx]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z4FqQUDvToo

This is the current one 36" on a 48" tank looks sick

[ROBONE20]

Wow is that only one 36" strip on the 4 footer? That's pretty impressive. I saw a total of three 48" strips on a 4 ft tank and it was super bright. I might consider the 36" ones instead of the 48". I'm was thinking two 48" strips on each side of the 8 ft tank, but now one 36" on each side might suffice.

[randomfishguy85]

for my 135 gallon i was going to go with 5 of these
http://www.ledwholesalers.com/store/index.php?act=viewProd&productId=703

[DoubleM 10]

I've been researching options for my FOWLR, too. I was looking at these but I want to see them in person (look it up on Drs. Foster Smith website).
AquaticLife Expandable LED Light Fixtures
- or these -
Current USA TrueLumen Pro LED Striplights

I have seen the Current ones in person and they are very bright. I'm waiting for the prices to go down or when they go on sale.

just looked at those and they are less tham one watt per led. i dot know how bright they will be.

[johno4]

for my 135 gallon i was going to go with 5 of these
http://www.ledwholesalers.com/store/index.php?act=viewProd&productId=703


How bright are these on a tank?

[randomfishguy85]

How bright are these on a tank?


I dont know but when i get them i will post some pics. If it isnt good enough, i will probably throw them on a nano or something

[xxnonamexx]

It appears you will need 2 of these:

http://www.marineandreef.com/AquaticLife_48_21_6_Watt_10K_460_nm_Light_p/ral01248.htm

and The Current unit the company said they don't know:

Abby L: I apologize, we are not sure how many would be needed for your aquarium, as the output of LED lights is not accurately measure in watts. We would suggest contacting the manufacturer directly at 866-276-8872, for further assistance.

But after further reading on other sites a member has used 1 current unit for a 55 and its perfect so I would think 120 2 would be wise.

But this chart says 1
http://www.current-usa.com/wp-content/uploads/Pro-Led-Strip-Lights-SW-Sizing-Guide.pdf

[ROBONE20]

Well the ones from Current looked pretty bright to me in person and in the video. I haven't seen the ones from AquaticLife. But I'm leaning towards the Current ones. I guess I would have to get 2 for each side if I get these.

I'm curious to see how the ones that Randomfishguy is buying though...

[Monkeyfish]

Tagging along.

[xxnonamexx]

It appears the aquatic ones (and they look nice and complete it appears you don't lose the light shining on your walls) (48") 2 for a 120g fowlr tank will cost 120x2=$240 free shipping http://www.marineandreef.com/AquaticLife_48_21_6_Watt_10K_460_nm_Light_p/ral01248.htm

The Current USA (48") 2 for a 120g FOWLR= $190x2=380 plus power supply=$50=$420

[Recty]

I used the marineland reef ready LED on my tank. The video is linked to below this.

http://youtu.be/B5CcurJvcdk

I'm not sure what you consider inexpensive, so it's hard to say if that will fit your bill but it certainly pays for itself over time with low energy usage and no bulb replacement plus no extra heat output into your tank.

The other nice thing about the Marineland fixtures is you can get it for any length, and if you dont want corals and want a more yellow look, they sell their double bright LED which is about half the cost as the Reef Ready LED.

[geaux xman]

how much flow you have in that video Recty?

any vids/pics of the double brights Marineland LED's anyone?

nevermind, i see a bunch of vids on youtube.

[xxnonamexx]

I was thinking the same Marineland looks nice, Nice tank what size tank do you have?

[Recty]

40g breeder. I upgrade to a 210g so that tank is no longer is service, but that's what I first tested the light on.

[Recty]

how much flow you have in that video Recty?
Two Koralia 3's and two canister filters rated for 100 gallon tanks each. I'm not sure on the exact amount of flow each one had, but I'd say at least 300-400 gph each.

[geaux xman]

i dont think a single 48-60" can cover my 60x30x23" tank. i'm currently using 2x150w MH.

this guy's tank is kinda dark and its a 75g.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PnjhoBq3ABc&feature=related

[Recty]

I would think two of the long LED strips could cover a tank of that dimensions pretty easily, but yep one would not be enough.

[angelfish7]

I'm also looking for LEDS for my 210 fowlr 72x30x24 . Will tag along.

[xxnonamexx]

Aquatic life or marineland look like best deals just need to figure whats better

[tntdsol]

http://www.aquastyleonline.com/produ...mable-Kit.html

This site has some pretty good deals. The reviews I have seen have been great. This is for the DIYers.

[xxnonamexx]

I looked alot into the DIY and some I found to be a tad cheaper then a housed unit already done. I think for FOWLR the Marineland and Aquaticlife are both in the running I would have to compare them to make a final decision but you can't beat the price.

[ironwill723]

Anyone tried these?

http://www.ledwholesalers.com/store/index.php?act=viewProd&productId=650

[Recty]

My brother built his own LED fixture for his 180g, VERY nice and it's definitely cheaper than buying a premade unit, but you put a lot of time into it.

[xxnonamexx]

What was his final cost

[Recty]

Around $800 but that's for enough light to grow anything and a 180g tank.

[Wistler]

I've been following along because LEDs are the next upgrade for my FOWLR. From what I have seen from pics and videos the Current USA Pro-Lumen Marine fusion strips seem to look the best and brightest...IMHO.

I just wish they were a little less expensive. The aquatic life strips look really nice too, for less money. I would love to see them side by side.

[xxnonamexx]

I agree the Current USA looks nice but pricey the Aquatic strips seem better for less money and it appears it keeps the lights in the tank and not on the walls. I would love to see them side by side as well. I checked on youtube for each and also Marineland.

[Craigar]

I love my ecoxotic panorama pro 19 wats on my fowlr tank it's a 92 bow front I used two yes only two of the strips and it lights up pretty well then I bought one all blue for morning and night killer deal for $200

[xxnonamexx]

Is that a AquaticLife 48" 21.6 Watt 10K/ 460 nm Expandable LED Light Fixture I would love to see a video of this unit on a tank?

[angelfish7]

Anyone look into these? Some folks in my reef club have them an they look pretty good.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Aquarium-Coral-Reef-Tank-LED-Grow-Light-120W-Blue-White-/270780957644?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item3f0bcd83cc

[xxnonamexx]

Those look like leds without any reflector and the unit looks very bulky compared to ther units.

[Recty]

I'm not going to go to the website right now because I'm at work, but there is a light sold called a Grow Spot (it's for people growing weed, GrowsPot) and it's a pretty good LED. What made me think about using it is it fits into a standard light socket AND it's directional somewhat, so I could have it aimed at the spots I wanted higher light needing corals to grow and as the light fell off around it, the lower light. Three of those would light up almost any tank just fine for FOWLR probably only really need two, all you'd have to do is build a little canopy with 2 or 3 sockets tucked up inside it and you've got cheap long lasting LED lighting. You might want to mix in a bluer bulb from somewhere else if you want the deepwater oceanic look.

The "Vigorous Veg" Grow Spot looks like it has a nice blue tint to it, you could probably mix two normal whites and one blue and get a nice effect, all for around $200-$250. It would be LOTS of light too.

[Recty]

I actually just googled the grow spot and there are lots of non drug related websites now selling it :) So feel free to look it up, it wouldnt be bad really, although probably not the IDEAL setup.

[Recty]

Hmmm, that website I looked at also has aquarium specific lighting.

http://www.sunshine-systems.com/AquaPanel-LED-Aquarium-Light-p/ap-26482-aq.htm

[wlyon]

I've been using 3 of these on my fowlr, 2 all white, and one 50/50

Works pretty well for only costing 80 bucks to light my whole 5 ft tank.

[xxnonamexx]

Do you have photos? Do you think 2 is good for a 4ft?

[angelfish7]

I've been using 3 of these on my fowlr, 2 all white, and one 50/50

Works pretty well for only costing 80 bucks to light my whole 5 ft tank.

Which lights did you get? The led aqua panel cost $150.

[ironwill723]

Hmmm, that website I looked at also has aquarium specific lighting.

http://www.sunshine-systems.com/AquaPanel-LED-Aquarium-Light-p/ap-26482-aq.htm


Coral Cove LLC near Dayton, OH uses these in their store. I think they use the UFO as well.

I'll try to find the link.

[wlyon]

interesting apparently it wont let me post a link from amazon on here :(

so go to amazon and search this (LED Wholesalers 2501WH White 225 LED 13.8 Watt Square Grow Light Panel 110 Volt)

[xxnonamexx]

the reviews state not very bright not all white lights turn on. I guess you get what you pay for.

[ROBONE20]

I'm also leaning towards buying four 48" AquaticLife LED strips for my tank. I found them at my LFS for a decent price, too. But I came across another product by Ecoxotic. It's called Stunner LED strips, check them out. They look comparable to the one sold by AquaticLife and slightly cheaper in price as well. Might be perfect for our FOWLR's.

[Wistler]

I was going to buy the Exoexotic stunners until I spoke with the folks from Current-USA. I don't think they are in the same ballpark, as far as brightness.

The tech from Current USA stated he has worked on both sets of lights and the Stunners are made more for freshwater ciclid tanks. I'm not sure what that means but that was his description. He said the Pro Lumen Marine Fusion are a lot brighter.

[frankie33]

Tagging along. Just setup a 20 gal community, the marineland set with a led hood. In the planning stages to get my 150 up and running again and definitely want to go with led. Planning for about a year to slowly gather and lighting will be the last purchase. I like the idea of the stunner strips because of all the different spectrums you could do dawn, daytime, dusk (the magenta/white), and night. Except I've read some terrible reviews on them. The marineland reef ready looks like it gives nice day color, however it only has the one cord and we all like to automate stuff and not bother with manual switches. Will def be fowlr so I'm not concerned about par, just full brigt lighting. And having different colors through the day is neat!

[barbianj]

Anyone look into these? Some folks in my reef club have them an they look pretty good.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Aquarium-Coral-Reef-Tank-LED-Grow-Light-120W-Blue-White-/270780957644?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item3f0bcd83cc

A number of local people have been running these LED units on their reef tanks, with very good results. Fish look better under the 14k's, and corals really pop under the 20k's. They have very good PAR numbers. You will see a lot of used T-5's and MH's for sale because of these LED's.

[Recty]

A number of local people have been running these LED units on their reef tanks, with very good results. Fish look better under the 14k's, and corals really pop under the 20k's. They have very good PAR numbers. You will see a lot of used T-5's and MH's for sale because of these LED's.

That's surprising to me, the picture of the light on eBay shows it over a SMALL tank and it barely looks lit up to me. I wasnt impressed at all by the picture, if the lights are as good as you say then they really need someone to take a better product photo for them.

[Sonicblast12]

This probably isn't what you guys are looking for, but I'll give a heads up anyway.

I was walking through Lowe's and came upon a cheap LED lighting system that can be set on about six different colors or cycle through all of them at different speeds. They had a deep blue setting which is what I was looking for because I don't like that my tanks are dark for 17 hours a day. I was looking for something I could use when the main lights were off. I had done moonlights in the past and thought they were pretty weak.

Anyway, it includes four light bars that are nine inches a piece, and you can buy larger ones as well. I linked up two of my tanks to the system and have it running through a setting where it slowly cycles through all of the colors and it looks awesome. Deep shimmer and at different points in the cycle the reds, blues, and yellows explode off the fish. My powder blue tang looks like an alien under the blue setting. Flame angels glow in the dark. It's still dark enough to be used at night, but the white setting is a little bright for that. Fifty bucks.

Went back yesterday to get another for my undy tank and they were sold out.

[kazilla]

After off and on research for about a year I like these (http://www.aquariumleds.com/products/120-Watt-Aquarium-LED-14K-3-Watt-LEDs.html). Planning on buying them this week and setting up my 120G.

[xxnonamexx]

I am not sure about those have you checked the other fixtures in this thread? The ones in that fixture appear to look small the led compared to other fixtures.

[kazilla]

I am not sure about those have you checked the other fixtures in this thread? The ones in that fixture appear to look small the led compared to other fixtures.

Yea I checked them all out, and they will work for a 120 FOWLR.

These (http://www.aquariumleds.com/products/120-Watt-Aquarium-LED-14K-3-Watt-LEDs.html) are the best I have seen for 3 reasons.

1. They are bright enough to sustain coral (placed correctly of course).
2. They have a 1 year warranty.
3. They are a bargain.

I am not sure what you mean small. If you mean there is too few LEDS, then yes the others have more. This is because 3w leds use 3xs as much power as 1w leds.

These lights have excellent PAR 2" depth-1537 Par 12" depth-423 Par 24" depth-182 Par w/ a Coverage of 7 Square Feet. Which are the stats you want to see, the best of course is the price tag @$160 & free shipping:eek2:

You can also check out their other fixtures, they have different Kelvin setups with 1,2, or 3 W leds.

[angelfish7]

How many of these fixtures would suffice for a 220g tank (72x24x30). 2 or 3?

[xxnonamexx]

you need 2 for a 120? those are 1w or 3w?

[SDguy]

I really want to do LED's for my 240g FO upgrade. So are folks satisfied with the LED colors available for a FO tank? Are the fish's colors vibrant under the standard LED wavelengths available. I notice Ecoxotic has mixed in some magenta with their blue panorama modules. I bet those would really make the reds and yellows pop on my fish...

[xxnonamexx]

but do you need 2 units for $160/piece?
If so this is a better deal

It appears the aquatic ones (and they look nice and complete it appears you don't lose the light shining on your walls) (48") 2 for a 120g fowlr tank will cost 120x2=$240 free shipping http://www.marineandreef.com/Aquatic...p/ral01248.htm

[angelfish7]

I'm debating between the aquariumleds.com and the Taotronics led 120w 14k 3w. Seems like theyre pretty much the same lamp. I've also read several reviews on the equipment forum and eveyone seems to be very happy with both.

http://www.aquariumleds.com/products/120-Watt-Aquarium-LED-14K-3-Watt-LEDs.html

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Aquarium-Coral-Reef-Tank-black-Blue-LED-Grow-Light-120W-/150726029374?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&var=&hash=item68c94c7950

[rinconmike]

I too am looking to replace my T5 on my 150 gallon FOWLR. The fixtures I have are nothing fancy. I currently have two 36" strips and each has a white and blue bulb. I think they are T5 HO. I do not recall the rest of the specs.

I would like something brighter.

There are so many to choose from. The bit of reading I have done, the Truelumen Marine Fusion seem like a nice upgrade.

http://www.current-usa.com/lighting/truelumen-pro-led-striplights

Will these provide good lighting over the depth the the tank. My 150 is 18" deep and 27" high. I do have a glass canopy too. The current T5s don't seem bright enough, especially at the front.

[xxnonamexx]

Current USA is nice, light, low profile, waterproof, easy to install. I don't think for my 120gal. 1 strip will work but I can start with one and see how it goes if I get 2 plus a transformer its approx. $430.
1 strip + transformer =$240

Then you can get this unit complete for less Marineland Reef Capable: http://www.marineandreef.com/Marineland_Reef_Capable_LED_Lighting_System_48_60_p/rml33003.htm $389

Aquaticlife: http://www.marineandreef.com/AquaticLife_48_21_6_Watt_10K_460_nm_Light_p/ral01248.htm $119 need 2= $240

I think the above units are superior with their low profile aesthetic looking and great price. I just don't know what out of the 3 is better. Youtube had a video of the Current USA which was awesome.

[rinconmike]

I am still looking at the TrueLuman. Foster and Smith has a decent price. two 36" marine fusion + 60 watt transformer for around $350.

However, the guys at premium aquatics said I would be better off with two 72" Reef Brite Strip.

http://premiumaquatics.com/aquatic-supplies/RB-PM72-5050.html

They said I would need at least 4 of the True Lumen to match one of the Reef Brite.

I want to put right on the glass, so they said the two 72" Reef Brite is better than one 72" Reef Brite XHO.

http://premiumaquatics.com/aquatic-supplies/RB-XHO-72BW.html

I guess none of these combinations fall into inexpensive LED, but I am still interested in something, but not sure what will be best for my setup.

[xxnonamexx]

Current-USA stated a 48" 120g FOWLR you will only need 1 strip which is a great deal at $240 with the controller included.

[rinconmike]

yeah. they told me two 36" marine fusion on my 150 would be fine. they said start with two and see if i need more.

DFS seems to have the best price. plus 60 day return if i do not like them.

[rinconmike]

Does anyone know if I go with two 36" marine fusion and the 60watt power supply, do I also need the three way splitter?

This link shows I do.

http://www.current-usa.com/wp-content/uploads/Pro-Led-Strip-Lights-SW-Sizing-Guide.pdf

I also assume if I go with four 36" I then need two 60W transformers and two splitters.

thanks,

Mike

[xxnonamexx]

It appears you do when I make my move I am getting a 48" Current. I emailed the company and they stated 1 unit does wonders.

[angelfish7]

It appears you do when I make my move I am getting a 48" Current. I emailed the company and they stated 1 unit does wonders.

What size tank does current recommend the 48" lumens? I'm looking for lights for my 72" 220. Was considering the Chinese led on ebay that go for $165 or current lumens.

[xxnonamexx]

http://www.current-usa.com/wp-content/uploads/Pro-Led-Strip-Lights-SW-Sizing-Guide.pdf

This shows what you need depending on FOWLR or Reef and size tank.

[rinconmike]

I ordered four Truelumen 36 inch strips for my 150 from Fostet & Smith. I figured I can try it out and return one set (two strips, splitter, and transformer) if one set of two is enough. I figured I wanted all four strips to at least try it out.

One question is can I have "too much" light for the fish. I am concerned that it may look good with more light using four of the 36" but am I creating an issue for the fish our the tank?

All four I bought are the marine fusion.

Thanks

Mike

[mhowe9]

I used 2 Marineland Double Brights on my 245G when I had it set up as FOWLR in our hold house. I will see if I can find some pics tonight when I get home from work

[angelfish7]

Mike
I can understand if you had a reef but why would you put double the recommended lights for a fowlr. I currently have a current usa -MH & CF fixture and notice the fish enjoy the CF lights more than the MH. I have 72" tank and if i get these would go with two strips first . Im still debating between these and the aquarium leds that run $160..see link below
http://www.aquariumleds.com/brands/AQLED.html

[rinconmike]

I was not sure if two would be enough. Mainly from my conversation with the guys at premium aquatics. They said I would need two to three rows instead of one row of the true lumen.

I had a one time ten percent off from foster and Smith so I figured I would order two sets now to take advantage of it. If I order two now and two later I could not use the 10% off. On the second set.

Of course I am second guessing it. DFS said I can return without a problem. I just need to pay return shipping. I did try to Change the order but I was to late.

So I am also wondering if I like the two rows, is it too much light.

I will be putting them right on to of the glass canopy.

[rinconmike]

here is a shot of the two T5HO I plan on replacing with the LEDs.

http://dl.dropbox.com/u/5728038/forPremAq/IMG-20120206-00021.jpg

I plan on putting the led right on the glass, but might need to raise them. Current said they can go on the glass if i want. i guess i need to see how the spread is.

once i get them (tomorrow) i will post pictures of the tank.

[mhowe9]

I used 2 Marineland Double Brights on my 245G when I had it set up as FOWLR in our hold house. I will see if I can find some pics tonight when I get home from work

Here is the pic as promised. Not my best photo but you get the idea.

http://i459.photobucket.com/albums/qq313/mhowe9/April-Full-Tank-Shot-245.jpg

[rinconmike]

thanks. do you know how these compare to the truelumen?

I should get the delivery of the truelumen today. I will take shots tonight of just the T5HO, then one row of the TrueLumen and then two rows.

Another concern I have with the led is if I put it on the glass, the spread is not great at the top so parts of the top of the tank adjacent to the LED will be little darker. Another reason why I think I might be better off with 2 rows. I guess I will just need to compare how it all looks.

[mhowe9]

thanks. do you know how these compare to the truelumen?

I should get the delivery of the truelumen today. I will take shots tonight of just the T5HO, then one row of the TrueLumen and then two rows.

Another concern I have with the led is if I put it on the glass, the spread is not great at the top so parts of the top of the tank adjacent to the LED will be little darker. Another reason why I think I might be better off with 2 rows. I guess I will just need to compare how it all looks.

Sorry I don't have a comparison to the TrueLumen. Honestly, I didn't do a whole lot of research when I set this up. I was looking for an inexpensive energy efficent option to light the tank at the time. Interested to see how you pics come out.

[xxnonamexx]

Can't wait to see the Tru Lumen

[RtReef]

inexpensive and LED are 2 words that can not be correlated..lol

[Wistler]

Mike, I am following your posts because I too want to put four 36" Marine Fusion strips on my 180 FOWLR. I have yet to see them in person, but all I have read has been positive.

I intend to remove the T-8 bulbs from the marineland cheapo housing that came with the standard glass top glass panes and mount the LED strips up inside there.

If that doesn't work out I may just make a long box, about 6" high out of some thin lumber. I figured I would paint it black, and mount the LED lights inside it about 5" off the glass.

[xxnonamexx]

for a 120gal. FOWLR they state one is good enough when I get my tank in the wall I will have the Current USA Tru Lumen you cannot beat the price for led.

[mhowe9]

inexpensive and LED are 2 words that can not be correlated..lol

You can get 2 36"-48" Doublebrights for $119/each. I don't think that is too bad for basic LED lights.

[Wistler]

My post above is incorrect....I meant to say I intend to put two of the 36" Tru Lumens at first and see how they look. I am sure they will look amazing, but if I ever want to add mushrooms or some softies to the tank I could add two more strips.

[rinconmike]

I got the Truelumen. I will try and get picts tonight. In my opinion, just two 36" strips are not bright enough. I think the four are slightly brighter than the two 36" T5HO I have.

I guess this is all relative in comparing though. T5HOs are pretty bright I guess.

With just two Truelumen (one row), there are darker areas since the LEDs sitting right on the glass do not spread as much if they were higher off the glass. Having the two rows makes it much better and closer to (or better than) the T5s. I do think the colors of the Truelumen are better than my T5s. I really need to compare at night since during the day the room is light.

As far as cost, I got one set of Truelumen (two 36" marine Fusion, one 60W power supply, and one splitter) for $328 from Dr. Foster and Smith (no tax, free delivery - plus 60 days to send back if I want).

The best price I can find Reef Brite 72in LED Strip Light - BLUE/WHITE is for $336 (not sure about tax and shipping). Two 36" would be $376.

My guess is the that with the Reef Brite two rows would be needed like the Truelumen. Going with the 72" is close to the price of the Truelumen, but going with the 36" would be a little more money. I think I would prefer two 36" over one 72". easier to move around if I need to.

Then there is the Reef Brite XHO and that really increases the price 72" is $503, two 36" is like $600 then.

I think for me, going with Truelumen, or Reef Brite, I would need two rows when putting right on the glass. I do not have and have not tried the Reef Brite, so I cannot really compare how they perform compared to the Truelumen.

One nice feature of the Truelumen is they are small. These things seem tiny and easy to move around. I think the Reef Brite and most out there are bigger.

Mike

[xxnonamexx]

can't wait to see pics wonder what a 48" would look like on a 120gal.

[sandwi54]

Here is a comparison of truelumen pro, reefbrite, and vertex.

http://www.reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1992015

i picked reefbrite.

[rinconmike]

Thanks. I read that and posted there to. I really went with Truelumen because I can return to DFS if I want.

Reason I did not try Reef Brite is I could not find anywhere where it is easy to return.

It would be great if I could get a set and try side by side with the Truelumen.


Dip you have any pics of your setup?

[sandwi54]

Thanks. I read that and posted there to. I really went with Truelumen because I can return to DFS if I want.

Reason I did not try Reef Brite is I could not find anywhere where it is easy to return.

It would be great if I could get a set and try side by side with the Truelumen.


Dip you have any pics of your setup?

I don't have pic yet. One of my LFS sells the reefbrites and that's why I went with it. Plus my tank is 30" deep and I wasn't sure if the truelumen was going to be able to punch the light all the way down.

I plan to do a 50/50 and an actinic reefbrite tech. The LFS only had the actinic and will order the 50/50 for me. I put the actinic on and the tank has a very nice blue (kind of dreamy) glow. I'm not sure how that will look with the 50/50 on. I'm hoping it won't look too blue, otherwise I may have to swap it with a white one.

[rinconmike]

I took some pictures, but they did not come out good. I need to try with a camera my wife has right now.

However, when the room is dark, a single row of LED is not as bright as T5, but colors are much nicer. Two rows of the LED is brighter than the T5, some may say too bright when the room is dark. with the two rows, the colors i think are nicer than the T5s, but i think the color of the single row is a little nicer than the two rows since there is less white and more blue (it appears that way) with a single row instead of two.

[xxnonamexx]

Rinconmike what size tank? Can't wait to see pix

[rinconmike]

150. 72Lx18Dx27H.

I have not had a chance to take better picts. i did take out the old lights and played a little with the position of the leds. one row does give a nice look, but not bright enough for me. second row is nice and bright. each row is around 7" (+/-) off the back and front walls.

I am thinking of getting some blue to add to it. i think anymore white would be too much.

I have been reading forum posts at current usa site and many responses back indicate 2 or 3 rows are recommended, some 4 or 5. maybe that is just for reefs.

Here is one that on a 36"L tank four rows are recommended.

http://support.current-usa.com/entries/20398276-sizing-a-trulumen-led-system

This one they note 5 rows:

http://support.current-usa.com/entries/20875056-led-lighting


One thing i noticed, my lights only have one power cord on the light around 12 to 18" long. many pictures i see show two 6" leads, one on each end, so you can link them. i have the three way splitter so not a big deal. i just wonder if i have an older or newer model.

Mike

[rinconmike]

I found this. it appears the photos of two wires on the LED (one on each end) is old and they are not "linkable" rather you use the 3 way splitter. i prefer it with the wire on only one end.

http://support.current-usa.com/entries/20672456-are-the-truelumen-pro-strips-no-longer-linkable-the-first-two-i-purchased-have-a-plug-wire-on-bo

also, i found this. looks like we can use a dimmer too:

http://support.current-usa.com/entries/20806127-can-a-light-dimmer-be-used-with-led-light-strips

with a link to:

http://www.ecoxotic.com/aquarium-led-lights/led-accessories/inline-led-dimmer-12-24-volt.html

[rinconmike]

Here are some picts. However, looking at the pics and the real thing are different.

Here is a shot with just the T5s (with Cam 1).

http://db.tt/XYRWYwkn

Here is a shot with the LEDs (with Cam 2, a different camera)

Both Rows (four 36" Marine Fusion)

http://db.tt/IvzCuLqy

One Row (two 36" Marine Fusion)

http://db.tt/F6v7cp9P


Here are two more shots with the LED. Using Camera 1. I forget if both were with all four LEDs on or just two.

http://db.tt/5QQsXMYV
http://db.tt/iZuWi88s


I think one row is not bright enough and like the two rows better. I do not think you can see much of a difference in the picts. With both, there are dark areas at the front and the back of he tank up high. so if the fish is swimming high, you do not see the vibrant colors as if they were swimming lower and the light hits them. I am actually thinking of two more 24" to go in the back. 24" since I have the overflows there anyway, but anymore needs to wait.

thanks,

Mike

[xxnonamexx]

Nice photos. Beautiful looking tank. I have a 120g. I think the 1 row looks pretty good. I'm going to get 1 48" marine since it should be a good start for FOWLR then later on I can always add a second one. I think I have a ton of rock in my tank here is a photo after I just cleaned the rock. I'm in the process of moving it to my house in a wall which is why I am just keeping it maintained and I also have 2 new powerheads coming and I think I am going to update the return pump to something a bit stronger.

[rinconmike]

thanks. 2 years in the making so far. Learned a lot on reef central. A year ago no live rock (bioballs in sump, which now has seachem matrix and LR) and just some coral skeletons. A ton more to learn.

For the LED One strip will probably be fine. I think it is preference. I want more light (and less shaded areas). Oen row has more "darker" areas at the top on my tank. You can always try a second later. Get it from Amazon or somewhere you can return and send it back if one is all you need.

Mike

[johno4]

Has anyone tried these?

http://www.aquatraders.com/LED-Freshwater-Bright-p/56205.htm

[johno4]

[QUOTE=johno4;19959622]Has anyone tried these?

http://www.aquatraders.com/LED-Freshwater-Bright-p/56205.htm


So no one has tried them. Any thoughts on trying these out. I would imagine you have have to supplement some blue in there but the price seems right.

[xxnonamexx]

I placed the Trulumen on my tank to see how it looks before I clean and place it into the wall and I think it looks great.

[Pallan]

bought a tank out and made it into a FOWL.. it had a home made LED setup from the previous owner. Just got the lights set up today

[sjfishguy]

Why do you guys want brighter light for a fo? Are you going to keep coral in there too? I am looking to set up a 120g FOWLR (no coral, hence fish only) and I want the cheapest, least amount of LED light that lights up the tank. Bright only adds to algae growth in these setups, so why is everyone saying "that won't be bright enough?"

[yogoshio]

I'd get a couple of these:
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Aquarium-Reef-LED-Lamp-30W-14000K-White-250W-Metal-Halide-alternative-Light-/271070600424?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item3f1d111ce8

Cheap, long lasting light

[Rockys_Pride]

I'd get a couple of these:
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Aquarium-Reef-LED-Lamp-30W-14000K-White-250W-Metal-Halide-alternative-Light-/271070600424?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item3f1d111ce8

Cheap, long lasting light

These are priced great, has anyone tried them? I'm thinking of getting some for my 250

[yogoshio]

A friend of mine has them over his 75g nem garden. He threw some off-brand actinic stunners in with them and loves it.