AI light question for 36g Bow

[sarget]

Hi
I am trying to decide on a lighting solution that can grow with us as the reef takes shape.

Trying to decide if dual AI primes at full intensity vs dual Hydra 32 at 50% to start with in a new reef with mainly easy corals to start. The primes are half the cost upfront.

My upgrade paths appears as these 2.
1) AI Primes add second prime on each side of tank or add AI blades to soften light and increase levels
2) AI Hydra 32 high first cost but just can increase intensity overtime.

Thoughts?

Thanks for your time.

 

[Saltyreef]

Hi
I am trying to decide on a lighting solution that can grow with us as the reef takes shape.

Trying to decide if dual AI primes at full intensity vs dual Hydra 32 at 50% to start with in a new reef with mainly easy corals to start. The primes are half the cost upfront.

My upgrade paths appears as these 2.
1) AI Primes add second prime on each side of tank or add AI blades to soften light and increase levels
2) AI Hydra 32 high first cost but just can increase intensity overtime.

Thoughts?

Thanks for your time.

I would go for the hydras if sps is in your future.

Also, fixtures running full power wont last as long as one running at half.

 

[Hooz]

Or another option would be 3x Primes and be done with it. 3 Primes on that tank (assuming standard dimensions) would grow anything you wanted to keep.

 

[nereefpat]

Welcome to R2R!

My 36 bow has a center brace. I assume your tank is the same?

If those are your 2 choices, and you are going with an SPS tank, I would choose the 2 Hydras. I'm not yet sold on the Blades, and 4 Primes is a lot of fixtures and cords.

You might look at Noopsyche K7s. They are similar to a Hydra 32 and about half price, but a janky controller.

 

[Hooz]

Welcome to R2R!

My 36 bow has a center brace. I assume your tank is the same?

If those are your 2 choices, and you are going with an SPS tank, I would choose the 2 Hydras. I'm not yet sold on the Blades, and 4 Primes is a lot of fixtures and cords.

You might look at Noopsyche K7s. They are similar to a Hydra 32 and about half price, but a janky controller.

Ah. When I Googled it to see dimensions, I didn't see the center brace. If it has one, then yeah, a pair of Hydras would do it.

 

[sarget]

Guys

Actually ended up getting a new 36bow as the previous one had so scratches wife did not like. New tank does not have a center brace.

Do I go with one Hydra in the center or two primes on the sides?

Thanks

 

[Hooz]

Guys

Actually ended up getting a new 36bow as the previous one had so scratches wife did not like. New tank does not have a center brace.

Do I go with one Hydra in the center or two primes on the sides?

Thanks

2 Primes for sure. Same number of LEDs as a Hydra, but better spread and coverage.

 

[nereefpat]

I also like 2 Primes over a single 32, as I don't love a Hydra to cover 30". You could also add a 3rd Prime if your sticks eventually need it

 

[sarget]

Guys
I ordered two AI primes for the tank. Tonight wife asks for more uniform light distribution. What are your thoughts about putting and AI blade grow along front edge to get that uniform light and let the primes still provide all the great shimmer?

Thanks