LED selection

Mike · 05-02-2012, 10:16 AM

After some consideration I have decided to order an out of the box LED unit instead of hanging a DIY over my rimless 125 gallon. I have the following units in mind.

1. AI Sol super blue unit. This unit would require the addition of a controller which I have already. I am a little concerned about needing to purchase an additonal bracket system as the cost of these should merit one being included.

2. Maxspect Mazzera P series. This unit can be purchased as a package system. The mounting rail can accept multiple units and is expandable. They incorporate 4 different types of LED's and use the new Cree XM-L lamps. The controller is included and it is wireless for all but one unit.

3. Ecotech Radion. Uses a more complete spectrum of RGB lighting to achieve what may be a more balanced and complete spectral field. Ecotech has a solid name and these are compatible with there battery back up system as well.

I think I would need three of the AI units, three of the Maxspect, and possibly 2 of the Ecotech units. I think cost is going to be comparable within a 150.00 each way on these. So for me it is about picking what is right for my tank and what I want to do. The tank is aquascaped with three smaller island configurations so no need for an across the board lighting scheme. I think having dimmer areas will be more dynamic for viewing in the case of this tank.

Any experieces with these products?? Please chime in

Chris · 05-02-2012, 10:43 AM

I like the AI's, I have seen them in use as Reef Paradise here in Flint has them on display over one of the coral tanks... They look nice, and serve their purpose.

But, I like the idea of the Radion covering the reds/greens and whatever else they come out with next as well as the ability to change the colors out to fit your needs, and would probably chose them over the AI if I was going to go with a manufactured type LED. Personally I went with DIY style, but the appearance of the units themselves didn't matter because of the fact they went on my In-wall system.

Also another + for the Radion is the fact that they can sync up with the vortecs and other ecotech products in the future from my understanding.... + Ecotech has a good reputation and stands behind their products!

creefer · 05-02-2012, 12:17 PM

I echo Chort55's comments. I have yet to see a Mazzera in action.

Chris · 05-02-2012, 12:39 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by creefer

I echo Chort55's comments. I have yet to see a Mazzera in action.

I actually forgot about the Mazzera's until I saw you commented.....

I have not seen these in action, nor do I know much about the company (although if I remember right they are a subsidiary of coralvue or coralvue bought the company or something along those lines, but I could be wrong)... but I have seen several used ones for sale on different boards that mentioned going back to MH, and one "got a good deal on AI's so going to try them". Granted I have seen the going back to MH threads from AI as well, but AI also has a ton of satisfied users too, where I haven't really seen any "OMG LOVE MY MAZZERA'S" threads

FWIW either the AI or the Radion would be a great choice, but personally I'd go with the Radion over either of the other choices.

larryandlaura · 05-02-2012, 02:37 PM

Radion all the way. Im using evolution leds now however I will be running radions soon. I seen there capabilities and them in action! Plus the storm mode and color options are insane!

binford4000 · 05-02-2012, 07:11 PM

The radions are sharp for sure and the ability to synch with the power heads is a plus for sure.But the 750.00 price tag is painful.I use the AI SOL Super blues on both our tanks and have nothing but praise for them.The new AI phoneix will be out soon and will be wireless controled and have rbg also from what I have been told.They also will be moduale constructed insted of a chip which to me is a plus and allows you to easily upgrade in the future.Both systems or brands are leaders in the field and you really can't go wrong with either one.Just depends on what ya want to do now and what the future holds.Makeing sure the unit is dimable to me is the most critical then optic or reflector choices is next.AI does allow you to choose diffrent angles not sure about radion.Hope it helped and looking forward to seeing your build completed

Mike · 05-02-2012, 08:12 PM

I think I will start with two Radion units and add a third in a month when I can swing one more lol. The pumps being able to synch up to create storms and such is another attractive feature.

scott89wing · 05-02-2012, 08:33 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Mike

After some consideration I have decided to order an out of the box LED unit instead of hanging a DIY over my rimless 125 gallon. I have the following units in mind.

1. AI Sol super blue unit. This unit would require the addition of a controller which I have already. I am a little concerned about needing to purchase an additonal bracket system as the cost of these should merit one being included.

2. Maxspect Mazzera P series. This unit can be purchased as a package system. The mounting rail can accept multiple units and is expandable. They incorporate 4 different types of LED's and use the new Cree XM-L lamps. The controller is included and it is wireless for all but one unit.

3. Ecotech Radion. Uses a more complete spectrum of RGB lighting to achieve what may be a more balanced and complete spectral field. Ecotech has a solid name and these are compatible with there battery back up system as well.

I think I would need three of the AI units, three of the Maxspect, and possibly 2 of the Ecotech units. I think cost is going to be comparable within a 150.00 each way on these. So for me it is about picking what is right for my tank and what I want to do. The tank is aquascaped with three smaller island configurations so no need for an across the board lighting scheme. I think having dimmer areas will be more dynamic for viewing in the case of this tank.

Any experieces with these products?? Please chime in

where did ya find leds for 125 each and onlt need 3 for a 125

Poseidon · 05-02-2012, 08:56 PM

I would really like to see the Radion in person. I have seen the AI's, and they are certainly a good choice.

Maybe I if Todd puts together his "mixer" at Cherry Corals new shop, I'll get my chance.