hypertech October 2, 2011 October 2, 2011 I am knowledgable about how everything works, I just haven't kept up with the specs on the latest offerings. I am currently running 2x150W HQI with Pheonix 14k bulbs on a 75g that a supplement with one UVL454 T5. I like the color. I am currently planning to upgrade to 2x250W HQI and I'm concerned that my one T5 will be over powered and washed out. So, I'm thinking of replacing it with a string of LEDs. Now for the questions: How many LEDs do I need. XP-E's appear to be the current favorite LED, so I was planning on using those unless there is something else I should consider. Do I need 6, 12, some other number? What do you suggest? I think I can run up to 14 on one driver. I was planning to use a dimmable Mean Well and connect it to my Apex. What color? I was looking at the spectrum plot on the UVL 454 and I'm guessing I want most if not all being royal blues. Any links to good reading on selecting color? What optics? I currently have the one T5 at the front of the tank with the reflector tilted about 45 degrees toward the tank to illuminate most of the rock structure. I have good coverage from a single bulb in this way I don't want light spilling out and I don't want to light only half the tank - that would look odd. Comments on 55 vs 80 degree? 80 seems like it might be too wide, but I'm not sure one strip with 55 would have good coverage. I'm aware of RapidLED and Heatsink USA. Any other good vendors to check?
basser9 October 2, 2011 October 2, 2011 Just put a piece of bar stock alum in the middle of the t5 reflector and use the fixture you have. 12 or more rb without reflector built into your t5 reflector works like a charm. led group buy is the way to go.
hypertech October 3, 2011 Author October 3, 2011 Thanks for the link. This is going in a canopy that I'll finish along with the skin on my stand someday. So, I'll be getting rid of the T5s when I switch over. Any comments on how many or what optics? I'm leaning towards 12 and dimming them if need be.
OldReefer October 11, 2011 October 11, 2011 If you have an Apex already you need to do dimming. It is too fun and easy go pass up. If in doubt, Ho wide on the optics. 80 degrees will be fine. You may not even need any. These LEDs have some punch. You ca go with 14 LEDs on one driver. No reason not to max it out. They are easy to dim.
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