Par30 or Par38

[BrendanG]

In the process of upgrading tanks, and going from a 10x10x10 cube to a PicoAquariums Manta Ray 15 (15x15x9)

 

I'm in need of lighting advice, and am extremely cautious. I've bleached an entire ricordea collection by underestimating the power of LED's in about a week. I'm trying to make sure I don't make the same mistake.

 

I'd like to keep zoas, rics, lps, rock anemone's, a clam and maybe some SPS down the line

All representing a variety of lighting requirements/tolerances.

 

After debating between LEDTRiC's Tru Pop Par38, and its fan boys praising its sheer brightness and color

and Orphek's claim about Photosynthetic Usable Radiation, and its dimming capabilities

 

I think I'm sold on Orphek.

I'd like to avoid the stadium lighting experience and crazy light spill from the LEDTRiC at my work desk.

(Most people seem to be hanging them 12-18" above their pico/nano)

 

 

Does anyone have experience with Orphek Lights?

Will a Par30 or Par38, be better suited towards my aquarium inhabitants lighting requirements, and my personal preferences?

 

Orpheks claim: http://orphek.com/led/2011/09/pur-photosynthetically-useable-radiation/

[LCDRDATA]

I was in a very similar position about a year ago. There's a long, detailed thread on this issue at reefcentral.com, PAR 38 LED Spotlights that I went over repeatedly. I was looking to light a 30 gallon cube and ended up going with a trio of BoostLED PAR 30 bulbs. Boost underdrives the LEDs to reduce heat and extend the life, and they offer a bunch of different color combinations. Besides Boost there are definitely a number of different possibilities out there (Orphek being one), which is both a blessing and a curse . Good luck!