reefbrite tech, still worth it?

[matt]

Hey, I want some leds for actinic pop. I have 4xt5 now...ati bulbs. Anyone care to comment on their experiences with reefbrite tech strips? Would love to see that info as I consider a blue strip. And how would this compare to some newer led kits for this purpose? ...not that I seem to find the time for much DIY these days. Thanks in advance

[yauger]

DIY are much cheaper IMO but the reefbright strips are easy.... the royal blue LED's gives a significant "POP" to florescent corals. I prefer them over T5's for that reason. however I have yet to see proven data that they are better for growth and the health of the coral. why not add both?

[monkiboy]

i've used them for supplemental lighting recently and was not impressed. while they do something, at their cost point i'd expect better penetration. they are much better than the stunner leds you see around. i have had really good luck with PAR38 LED bulbs. there's a member on here who makes them (decadence) and you can also pick them up from reefbreeders. i completed a group buy recently for them at around $50 shipped and will likely have another with the next evergrow group buy, if interested.

[matt]

Thanks guys. I came across a very good deal and ultimately pulled the trigger. I haven't had much time for DIY recently anyway, so we'll see how the reefbrite works out next to my existing t5. I had thought about par38, but optics and canopy mounting options had me stuck.

 

Front to back, I'll end up with:

36" reefbrite tech blue

39w b+

39w p+

39w c+

39w b+

 

Prior to the reefbrite I had about 150 par at the sandbed, so I'm mostly hoping for small color enhancements.

 

Now I just need some more fish so my wife doesn't flip out over my coral and equipment fetish...haha

[STEVE]

Matt, I am currently running 48" Reefbrights (2) on my 300 tank if you want to stop by and see them. I really like the look of them, they do give me a little bit of the pop your talking about, you can be the judge...the mounting is simple and the color is nice.

[matt]

Steve, what are you using for primary lighting? Got any tank pics handy? I do appreciate the offer btw...may hit you up

[STEVE]

3 mh's 400 watt and 2 reefbrites...sorry no pics

Edited March 21, 2013 by STEVE