Radions or hydras

saltfishguy18 · 01/14/2018, 10:54 AM

So I’m going to have to change leds coming up soon so I have some time. I have a standard 90 gallon 48”x18”x24” tank. I have a retrofit t5 kit already mounted in my canopy which will be staying. Leds are the primary and t5’s supplement in the middle of the day. My tank is primarily sps but I do have lps as well. I’m torn between hydra 52’s hd or radions xr 30 g4’s. Note I will do two of each. Looking for some thoughts from people that have/use both/one or the other on there systems. Again, my tank is primarily sps with some lps. I appreciate all the suggestions!!

Just an FYI I don’t want to turn this into a t5/led/halide is better type convo. I’m pretty set on these two options but some ppl say the new v4’s are really good.

Looking for people that actually use this lights and their reviews

zooman72 · 01/14/2018, 11:18 AM

I prefer the Radions personally, but here goes anyways...

Cost: Hydras are $600, Radions are $800 - Hydras win on costs, plus no additional controller needed, add $100 for EcoTech Reeflink. (Since you are adding T5's, consider picking up a pair of Gen 3 Pros - have seen them for $350 in the classifieds, and they are still really good)

Lenses: Hydras are 80 degrees, which would be fine if suspending them a bit, but you have a canopy, and the HEI lenses on the Radions result in a much greater spread, plus you can add the new diffuser - Radions win on light field.

So I would ask what is important to you - cost or spread? I also prefer the diode mix in the Radion a bit better...

Cheapreef · 01/14/2018, 11:22 AM

And I'll suggest the Hydras. lol Save the $$ and get the 52's with your T5's you'll have more than enough spread. I run this setup with the 26's and couldn't be happier I saved the $350 not going Radion.

PhishyRupert · 01/14/2018, 11:37 AM

Radions are only 800 if he went with the pro version. If not it’s pretty equal on cost. I’ve used both and either or will do the job. I’d say since you have t5s that are already staying then you’d be fine with the standard radions...it kinda just comes down on which one will work best for you with mounting in a canopy and whether or not you want to have an extra piece of equipment somewhere in the house to control the lights as with the radion

SloppyWhenWet · 01/14/2018, 11:50 AM

Use the Gen 4 Pro XR15's two will cover that tank. Win Win. No reason for the larger lights on that tank.

zooman72 · 01/14/2018, 12:07 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by SloppyWhenWet

Use the Gen 4 Pro XR15's two will cover that tank. Win Win. No reason for the larger lights on that tank.

That aquarium is large enough that the XR30's would probably be warranted, depending possibly on how many T5's are in use.

HBtank · 01/14/2018, 12:18 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by SloppyWhenWet

Use the Gen 4 Pro XR15's two will cover that tank. Win Win. No reason for the larger lights on that tank.

Really 3 XR15s or two XR30; I have this same area, the height they are at in a canopy (and as the "main light"), two just would leave obvious gaps. I personally would go three XR15s in mine due to the overflow placement.

saltfishguy18 · 01/14/2018, 01:13 PM

If I did the radions it would be the 30’s. I don’t think I would do the pros as the extra wattage wouldn’t really be needed, especially with t5’s.

Since I do have the t5’s I dont know if it’s worth getting the g4’s for the hei lenses or not

saltfishguy18 · 01/14/2018, 01:16 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Cheapreef

And I'll suggest the Hydras. lol Save the $$ and get the 52's with your T5's you'll have more than enough spread. I run this setup with the 26's and couldn't be happier I saved the $350 not going Radion.

What kind of corals do you keep? Sps?

Cheapreef · 01/14/2018, 01:31 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by saltfishguy18

What kind of corals do you keep? Sps?

Yes about 80% sps, clam and a few LPS

saltfishguy18 · 01/14/2018, 01:32 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Cheapreef

Yes about 80% sps, clam and a few LPS

Got it. That’s the same for me as well. What size tank do you have?

nycman · 01/14/2018, 01:39 PM

I consider these two brands/products but ultimately went with GHL Mitras 7200s on my reef tank and 7000s on my planted freshwater tank. I have 7 all together, all suspended from the ceiling (so no bracket on the tank rim or wall mount). I could not be happier with them and their programability.

Cheapreef · 01/14/2018, 02:35 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by saltfishguy18

Got it. That’s the same for me as well. What size tank do you have?

I run a 44 X 22 X 12" deep shallow, hybrid fixture (4 36" T5's and 2 Hydra 26's) sits about 11" off the water line. 300+ Par on my sandbed, the 2 Hydra 26's peak at 85% for 4hrs.

mako61 · 01/14/2018, 02:46 PM

I looked at Radions also, but went with Mitras LX 7206s. I think both lights are super programmable and very good. I think either is a good choice.

Reasons I went with LX7s:
More leds so cost per led much lower $10 vs $17 per led
6 pucks vs 2 pucks so leds are more spread out
sealed bottom
fans are on top and very quiet ( i cant hear them )

Joke · 01/14/2018, 05:58 PM

Have you seen the Orphek Amazonas 80, just found these today. Supplemented with t5s could be an amazing combo, its got me thinking. You would receive amazing shimmer too!

SDboatguy · 01/15/2018, 09:32 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Cheapreef

I run a 44 X 22 X 12" deep shallow, hybrid fixture (4 36" T5's and 2 Hydra 26's) sits about 11" off the water line. 300+ Par on my sandbed, the 2 Hydra 26's peak at 85% for 4hrs.

My system is similar 60 x 18 x 20 with 4 T5 and 3 Hydra 26 HDs, really like it and the corals seem to as well. However the Radion do have a little better coverage, supposedly.

jurgenph · 01/15/2018, 09:43 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Cheapreef

I run a 44 X 22 X 12" deep shallow, hybrid fixture (4 36" T5's and 2 Hydra 26's) sits about 11" off the water line. 300+ Par on my sandbed, the 2 Hydra 26's peak at 85% for 4hrs.

i was going to suggest two or three hydra26 hd as well. i have no experience with the radions, so i can't comment on those.

one of the reasons that i went with hydra is that you don't need to purchase any other add-ons. buy the lights, that's it. everything you need to control them is built in.

i'm sure no matter which one you pick, it'll grow corals

J.

DesertReefT4r · 01/15/2018, 08:15 PM

2 Radion XR 30 gets my vote as well. AI makes a fine light but I have always felt the Radions where superior. Pros would be nice but may be unnecessary for your tank along with the t5 lighting.

saltfishguy18 · 01/18/2018, 07:26 PM

Bump for more thoughts

duraace9sp · 01/20/2018, 01:39 PM

The Orphek V4s in my opinion are the first choice with n qualifications. I am changing over a second system to these lights.....so they are replacing the above referenced LEDs and already replaced my 8 bulb T5 with an XHO......

Check BRSs video commentary on these lights......

duraace9sp · 01/20/2018, 01:40 PM

[QUOTE=duraace9sp;25337288]The Orphek V4s in my opinion are the first choice with no qualifications. I am changing over a second system to these lights.....so they are replacing the above referenced LEDs and already replaced my 8 bulb T5 with an XHO......

Check BRSs video commentary on these lights......[/QUOTE

Typo correction.......

saltfishguy18 · 01/28/2018, 11:23 PM

Ok so I have been doing a lot more research on options. Appears that the orphek v4’s have been getting amazing reviews as well. Only problem I see is that I would more than likely need two and that is a bit expensive. The orphek v4 compact are intriguing because doing two of those would seem to work fine. Anyone running the orphek v4 compacts?

murphreef · 01/29/2018, 03:48 PM

If you get 3 Radion XR15s youd be set!

No need for T5's these leds are way more than capable and give that blue look with no added supplemental lighting needed.

You dont need a controller either you can do it all from your lap top.

Easy

01/14/2018, 10:54 AM	#1
saltfishguy18 Registered Member Join Date: Dec 2013 Posts: 67	Radions or hydras So I’m going to have to change leds coming up soon so I have some time. I have a standard 90 gallon 48”x18”x24” tank. I have a retrofit t5 kit already mounted in my canopy which will be staying. Leds are the primary and t5’s supplement in the middle of the day. My tank is primarily sps but I do have lps as well. I’m torn between hydra 52’s hd or radions xr 30 g4’s. Note I will do two of each. Looking for some thoughts from people that have/use both/one or the other on there systems. Again, my tank is primarily sps with some lps. I appreciate all the suggestions!! Just an FYI I don’t want to turn this into a t5/led/halide is better type convo. I’m pretty set on these two options but some ppl say the new v4’s are really good. Looking for people that actually use this lights and their reviews

01/14/2018, 11:18 AM	#2
zooman72 Registered Member Join Date: Jan 2009 Location: Lockport, NY Posts: 1,340	I prefer the Radions personally, but here goes anyways... Cost: Hydras are $600, Radions are $800 - Hydras win on costs, plus no additional controller needed, add $100 for EcoTech Reeflink. (Since you are adding T5's, consider picking up a pair of Gen 3 Pros - have seen them for $350 in the classifieds, and they are still really good) Lenses: Hydras are 80 degrees, which would be fine if suspending them a bit, but you have a canopy, and the HEI lenses on the Radions result in a much greater spread, plus you can add the new diffuser - Radions win on light field. So I would ask what is important to you - cost or spread? I also prefer the diode mix in the Radion a bit better... __________________ 7 reef tanks, 5 freshwater tanks, 2 terrariums, 2 dogs, 3 boys, and 1 very understanding wife! Current Tank Info: Marine: Pair of 40B's, 45W, 50g cube, ADA 45F at home...IM Nuvo 20 and 10 at office!

01/14/2018, 01:39 PM	#12
nycman Registered Member Join Date: Mar 2017 Location: New York City Posts: 199	I consider these two brands/products but ultimately went with GHL Mitras 7200s on my reef tank and 7000s on my planted freshwater tank. I have 7 all together, all suspended from the ceiling (so no bracket on the tank rim or wall mount). I could not be happier with them and their programability. __________________ 72x26x24 Miracles rimless with ReefSavvy ghost overflow 4xMitras LX7206 / Lifereef sump, skimmer and fuge 302 Aquatics algae scrubber / JBJ 1/3 HP Chiller Aqua UV 28W

01/14/2018, 02:46 PM	#14
mako61 Registered Member Join Date: Feb 2017 Location: Dallas Posts: 359	I looked at Radions also, but went with Mitras LX 7206s. I think both lights are super programmable and very good. I think either is a good choice. Reasons I went with LX7s: More leds so cost per led much lower $10 vs $17 per led 6 pucks vs 2 pucks so leds are more spread out sealed bottom fans are on top and very quiet ( i cant hear them ) __________________ Thanks, Mako Current Tank Info: Returning Reefer - Red Sea 525XL, Mitras LX7s, Apex, check homepage for vids of tank

01/15/2018, 08:15 PM	#18
DesertReefT4r Registered Member Join Date: Sep 2015 Location: Mesa Az Posts: 771	2 Radion XR 30 gets my vote as well. AI makes a fine light but I have always felt the Radions where superior. Pros would be nice but may be unnecessary for your tank along with the t5 lighting. __________________ Tank history 29g tropical ,55g cichlid tank, 20H softy reef, 29g mixed reef, 20H brackish goby & puffer tank, 55g mixed reef, 6g Nanocube softy lps reef, 40B sps reef, 75g sps reef, 75g sps reef in bu Current Tank Info: 75g sps reef build in the works.

01/14/2018, 11:22 AM	#3
Cheapreef Registered Member Join Date: Apr 2002 Posts: 1,076	And I'll suggest the Hydras. lol Save the $$ and get the 52's with your T5's you'll have more than enough spread. I run this setup with the 26's and couldn't be happier I saved the $350 not going Radion.

01/14/2018, 11:37 AM	#4
PhishyRupert Registered Member Join Date: Aug 2015 Posts: 52	Radions are only 800 if he went with the pro version. If not it’s pretty equal on cost. I’ve used both and either or will do the job. I’d say since you have t5s that are already staying then you’d be fine with the standard radions...it kinda just comes down on which one will work best for you with mounting in a canopy and whether or not you want to have an extra piece of equipment somewhere in the house to control the lights as with the radion

01/14/2018, 11:50 AM	#5
SloppyWhenWet Registered Member Join Date: Nov 2012 Location: Wisconsin Posts: 166	Use the Gen 4 Pro XR15's two will cover that tank. Win Win. No reason for the larger lights on that tank.

01/14/2018, 01:13 PM	#8
saltfishguy18 Registered Member Join Date: Dec 2013 Posts: 67	If I did the radions it would be the 30’s. I don’t think I would do the pros as the extra wattage wouldn’t really be needed, especially with t5’s. Since I do have the t5’s I dont know if it’s worth getting the g4’s for the hei lenses or not

01/14/2018, 05:58 PM	#15
Joke Registered Member Join Date: Jun 2015 Location: Australia Posts: 446	Have you seen the Orphek Amazonas 80, just found these today. Supplemented with t5s could be an amazing combo, its got me thinking. You would receive amazing shimmer too!

01/18/2018, 07:26 PM	#19
saltfishguy18 Registered Member Join Date: Dec 2013 Posts: 67	Bump for more thoughts

01/20/2018, 01:39 PM	#20
duraace9sp Registered Member Join Date: Dec 2014 Location: California Posts: 61	The Orphek V4s in my opinion are the first choice with n qualifications. I am changing over a second system to these lights.....so they are replacing the above referenced LEDs and already replaced my 8 bulb T5 with an XHO...... Check BRSs video commentary on these lights......

01/20/2018, 01:40 PM	#21
duraace9sp Registered Member Join Date: Dec 2014 Location: California Posts: 61	[QUOTE=duraace9sp;25337288]The Orphek V4s in my opinion are the first choice with no qualifications. I am changing over a second system to these lights.....so they are replacing the above referenced LEDs and already replaced my 8 bulb T5 with an XHO...... Check BRSs video commentary on these lights......[/QUOTE Typo correction.......

01/28/2018, 11:23 PM	#22
saltfishguy18 Registered Member Join Date: Dec 2013 Posts: 67	Radions or hydras Ok so I have been doing a lot more research on options. Appears that the orphek v4’s have been getting amazing reviews as well. Only problem I see is that I would more than likely need two and that is a bit expensive. The orphek v4 compact are intriguing because doing two of those would seem to work fine. Anyone running the orphek v4 compacts?

01/29/2018, 03:48 PM	#23
murphreef Registered Member Join Date: May 2005 Location: simi valley Posts: 3,208	If you get 3 Radion XR15s youd be set! No need for T5's these leds are way more than capable and give that blue look with no added supplemental lighting needed. You dont need a controller either you can do it all from your lap top. Easy __________________ Justin Current Tank Info: 25G cube (finally back in the hobby in a small way)