Thinking about an LED upgrade for Christmas/Tax Return

[mrs.som]

I am looking at the Stunner Strips as they look reasonably priced and not too difficult to install.
My question is, which and how many do I need for my 29g Biocube? I am not really interested in SPS, just softies and maybe some LPS.
Thanks for the help!

[jimsflies]

Premium Aquatic, one of our sponsors, has them.

Not 100% positive, but I think Kees Aquarium (another site sponsor) also carries them in state.

Do you have the power compact or hqi biocube?

[Sir Patrick]

I have been eye balling those also!

[mrs.som]

@Jim, thanks for the info about our sponsors, I forgot to check here first (Note to self!)
I have the older power compact biocube. The lighting is "fine" but I really love the shimmer that LEDs give off.
Right now I'm just confused about which and how many of the strips I need/want.
I'm guessing I probably won't be able to fit more than 3 in the hood but then I don't know which colors to get.
Any recommendations?

8000K (White), 453nm (Blue), 8000K (White) with 453nm (Blue) and 403nm (Ultraviolet).

@SirPatrick, I know right? They are very attractive!

[evilc66]

Are you looking to replace the PCs, or just add to them?

[mrs.som]

Are you looking to replace the PCs, or just add to them?

Replace them. I was thinking of just removing the bulbs and then sticking the strips in but maybe that won't work (?) The point of using the LEDs was to not have to buy replacement bulbs @20 bucks a pop every year. Plus, of course, I prefer the look

[evilc66]

If you want to use the Stunners, you really should look into use the optional reflectors to make them more usable. They will reduce coverage some though. For a tank that size, a minimum of 4 would be needed I think. Going with a pair of Panoramas might be a more effective option, and would cost about the same, but with more usable light output. You could then use the Stunners to tweak the color as you needed. Just don't mount the strips flat against any surface so the heatsink is closed off. That heatsink needs airflow.

[mrs.som]

@Evil...wow, thanks for the all the info. I definitely need to continue researching!

[evilc66]

As always, there are a hundred ways to skin a cat. The two options I listed are just a few of the options you have available to you for LED lighting. You just have to decide what features are important to you, and what you are willing to pay for them. Ultimately, DIY gives you the best overall performance, and the most control over your light, but not everyone has the skill or desire to go that way.