LumenMax 3 or Reef Optix 3? [Archive] - Reef Central Online Community

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eep013

10/28/2006, 05:05 PM

I'm about to buy my first MH pendant and I've narrowed the choices down to two: The Reef Optix 3 and the LumenMax 3. Is the Lumenmax worth the extra $50? The tank I'm setting up is a cube (20"W x 18"L x 21"H).

Thanks for any advice!

120greefr

10/28/2006, 05:16 PM

I had a RO3, it was pretty nice. Never tried the lumenmax.

hawaiianwargod

10/28/2006, 05:17 PM

120greefr
[welcome]

prugs

10/28/2006, 05:26 PM

I wish the lumenmax had been around when I bought my lights.

gcarroll

10/28/2006, 05:53 PM

I have used both and for a tank that is less than 24" in L or W the RO3 will be fine. The LM3 is a better reflector but is not worth the extra cost for your tank. If you plan to some day move up in tank size then I would go for the LM3.

lcdd

10/28/2006, 07:15 PM

I agree with GCcarroll. For your size tank the ROIII is actually a better choice. I guessing that the Lumenmax may have greater light spill since it's bigger. Hence you'll have to place it closer to the water to prevent ithe light spill. This will then heat the water more. I have the ROIII on a standard 180 6" off the water and it works great.