Seeking JBJ 28G LED pro version reviews

[Jonathan's Reef]

I'm searching for a great nano setup, and going with the 28g pro led setup by jbj is tempting. Much easier and more sleek looking than a diy setup, most likely. I've seen some great pics and videos of the JBJ 28g LED pro nano. I've read reviews about a great look, fantastic growth, and solid design.

 

I've also heard they don't always package with the greatest care and lights may not be strong enough for sps or that they only last a couple years. I'm wondering if anyone has some more first hand experience to share about this particular JBJ product or recommendations for competitors?

[khh27]

My Quad Power Compact version was packed well but shipping is a pita no matter what. I ordered from DFS and the top trim ring was cracked in several places. Returned and 2nd one was also fractured In One place but didn't want to send it back it was something I could live with. As far as pro version I've heard the led is VERY powerful and people have bleached sps. But that being said I would get cheapest option available like I did. I now have a xr15pro on mine and love it. 1st being equipment. Any decent skimmer you put on you will most likely not be able to open hood properly with the skimmer. I couldn't with a aquamaxx hob-1,which I recommend that Thang is a beast. 2nd HEAT. I had a hard time keeping mine below 81 even at night. The hood really keeps it hot. 3rd controllability I don't think those led's are controllable via apex or reefkeeper. The tank is a great unit though and won't be disappointed. I don't see spending the money for that when a equally priced hydra 26 or kessil is about the same price if not cheaper than the added cost for the led pro. Most people find the intermediate led too underpowered but I hear the pro version is very strong. My 2 cents but from experience on a 28jbj

Edited May 19, 2015 by khh27

[Jonathan's Reef]

I just looked up the hydra 26. That does look pretty awesome. I imagine I could get a 30ish gallon rimless and mount this with it for a pretty fantastic look. I don't think that I'd save money putting my own together though when you consider the cost of tank, stand, filtration, lighting, and water movement though. May get better quality, but also may suffer in curb appeal.

 

I've never heard the pro leda were too strong before. Pretty funny how these things are all over tha spectrum.

[AlanM]

Lots of folks here will advise you against all in ones for their general lack of functionality and expandability no matter how clean they look. Plenty here will have started with one like you're looking at and quickly upgraded to something with a sump and controller. It is absolutely possible to run a great reef in one, but harder than running a larger reef. My prediction would be within a year you would ask if the back can be drilled so you can put a sump in the stand...

[khh27]

I just looked up the hydra 26. That does look pretty awesome. I imagine I could get a 30ish gallon rimless and mount this with it for a pretty fantastic look. I don't think that I'd save money putting my own together though when you consider the cost of tank, stand, filtration, lighting, and water movement though. May get better quality, but also may suffer in curb appeal.

 

I've never heard the pro leda were too strong before. Pretty funny how these things are all over tha spectrum.

I'm not saying piece one together I love my 28 and have a nice enough setup to me and can keep sps. I'm just saying don't spend the extra 3-4 hundred Dollars on there hooded led. Get a regular hooded 28 for 300 and spend 300 on a hydra 26 and your more versitale on your lighting needs.

[khh27]

From about 9 months ago

[Jonathan's Reef]

Alan, you do make a good point. I had the first jbj 24g 7years ago, and I'm already aching for something bigger and better. It's just that I don't have the space for it.

 

Khh, nice setup. You're right about buying the cheaper version and lighting it yourself. Hadn't thought of that, but when you start adding things hanging on the back, it gets less show room ready.

 

I think I may be leaning toward a DIY setup. Any opinions on the value of starphire

[khh27]

I know a 60 cube isn't a nano bit has a good footprint. 24x24x24

[Jonathan's Reef]

khh, You've inspired me. I think I'm going to go down the 60 cube path. Not 100% on it, but it seems like a good call. I like all-in-ones, but while they're more sleek and compact, they're not nearly as customizable. The 60 cube really requires a sump, so that makes it easy to add volume and cool toys like skimmers and reactors without losing visual appeal. 

 

Do you have a build thread or some pics available?

[khh27]

khh, You've inspired me. I think I'm going to go down the 60 cube path. Not 100% on it, but it seems like a good call. I like all-in-ones, but while they're more sleek and compact, they're not nearly as customizable. The 60 cube really requires a sump, so that makes it easy to add volume and cool toys like skimmers and reactors without losing visual appeal.

 

Do you have a build thread or some pics available?

I don't personally own a 60 cube but I love the deminsions and know of several running. There is currently one for sale on Richmond reefers

 

http://richmondreefers.com/phpbb/viewtopic.php?t=17759

 

Good price I think too.

Edited May 22, 2015 by khh27

[Jonathan's Reef]

Ah I see. Yeah, that is a cool setup style. I actually just signed up with Richmond Reefers to inquire about the link you posted. Thanks a lot for all the help and advice!

[khh27]

Ah I see. Yeah, that is a cool setup style. I actually just signed up with Richmond Reefers to inquire about the link you posted. Thanks a lot for all the help and advice!

No problem that's what we're here for. Yea I saw your post. Lol