Additional XR15 G5 or replace with XR30?

[jx.reef]

I currently am running a single XR15 G4 over my Nuvo 20 (24") and feel like I'm just not getting enough light on the sides. Would it make more sense to add a G5 XR15 or replace my existing G4 with a G5 XR30? I'm worried the G4 and G5 spectrum will be different enough that my tank will look like it's split in half. Does anyone have experience mixing G4s with G5s?

 

[Gordonm]

What your running now would seem more than enough light.

 

[jx.reef]

I'd agree the middle 12" or so definitely has more than enough light. However, the issue is getting enough light on each side for my SPS and the frag rack. It's noticeably dark compared to when I ran T5s.

 

[Billldg]

The G4 and G5 spread is different due to the led layout. The spectrums are the same, just the spread is different. One G5 would do better because of the led layout than the G4. That's one of the improvements they made with this new layout. I would actually see about buying a used G4 to keep from having an unbalanced par situation or get a XR15 G5 by itself. Brs did studies on the spread of the G5 and they were impressive.

 

[jx.reef]

Appreciate the response! I was having trouble finding another G4 XR15 ... really wish I bought one when they went on sale. I might be misunderstanding what you wrote, but you meant to say get the XR30 (not XR15) by itself right? I have a feeling it will help out with my shadowing issues too.

 

[Billldg]

Appreciate the response! I was having trouble finding another G4 XR15 ... really wish I bought one when they went on sale. I might be misunderstanding what you wrote, but you meant to say get the XR30 (not XR15) by itself right? I have a feeling it will help out with my shadowing issues too.

No, the XR15 G5 by itself has a very impressive spread. I encourage you to watch the videos BRS did as it will show the spread. Now shadowing can't be helped. That is why I am going with a hybrid again on my tank upgrade. On my 225 gal 72x30x24 tank I plan on using a hybrid with 5 XR15 G5 Blues. I love Radions, but I can't afford 10 XR15 G5's, lol!!!

A cheaper alternative would be to go with a 24in hybrid setup.

 

[jx.reef]

Gotcha - I'll check out the BRS video then. Looks like I'll be picking up a G5 XR15 whenever they restock . Thanks for the help!

 

[Billldg]

Gotcha - I'll check out the BRS video then. Looks like I'll be picking up a G5 XR15 whenever they restock . Thanks for the help!

Just remember, it has a bigger spread, but a hybrid has a far wider focal point thus eliminating shadowing.

 

[BrandonS]

I am always a fan of multi lights. Allows you to better space things over a single double fixture.

 

[jx.reef]

Completely agree on the benefits of a hybrid ... but hanging the lights isn't an option for me. I sure wish ATI came out with some mounting legs! I could've sworn I saw a thread by them a few years back saying they were making some.