24" bars would be fine. I'd honestly start with one and see what you think. You're only asking for a 12" spread. Easily doable. If you go two, there definitely would be no shadowing. But keep in mind they aren't controllable in intensity and you'll need to run a timer to turn them on and off. Still an excellent option.
Ok so basically just would adjust intensity by mount height. I’d probably get 2 if I try them just because. But I hear you on starting with 1 2 footer being ok. Definitely like this option, don’t care about ramp up and down really. Because that didn’t exist pre LEDs anyway. I’m glad I posted I am getting lots of great advice and showing me options I didn’t even know existed.
I don’t know why I wasn’t also considering the photons, they also seem like a good option and the included tank mount is nice.
If they didn’t have these lens melt issues I think I would have already bought 2 or 3 used primes.
If you call AI with a problem sometimes they'll send you new lenses for free sometimes they are like $4 with shipping. It really just depends who you talk to on the phone. I wouldn't worry about the lenses they are really easy to change out. Also I like their gooseneck mounts. I can make it the exact angle I want off the water. Also you can order extra lenses and change them whenever. For the price you can probably get a pair for on here, it is well worth having to order some extra backup lenses.
I am definitely reassured to know that the backup lenses do exist. And the mounts also are a big reason I was looking at the AIs
they exist but you have to make sure to swap them out before the diodes themselves melt.
Can you take the lid off the tank without removing the light. The worst part of using my 2 fluval bars at the moment.My prime melted the lens. Never turned up any channel over 81% I wish I never spent money on My prime 16hd. Oh and 6 months after the lens melted the fan buzzes all the time
I’ve had photons run 5+ years with no issues. The current ones don’t even use fans the whole unit is a passive heat sync
Plus bonus feature, doubles as a shelf for your stuff
Good point. I guess I’d be proactively replacing them lol. If this is such an issue how have they not updated the light yet.
a way to make more money, unfortunately
Yes
The majority of the bracket is on the outside 50% of the frame. There is a tab that extends further, it’s the “emergency tab”. In case you bump into the mounting leg with your arm and cause the leg to bow out, the fixture doesn’t fall
Ok I’m using a diy screen frame lid, should be able to do this. But if not it still cant be worse than what I’ve got right now. Definitely will consider the 24 inch model.The majority of the bracket is on the outside 50% of the frame. There is a tab that extends further, it’s the “emergency tab”. In case you bump into the mounting leg with your arm and cause the leg to bow out, the fixture doesn’t fall
I slide the light back, open the lid, and slide the lid forward and out at a gentle angle.
I have never seen customer service as good as Daniel with Reefi Labs Lights. I run 4 of them over a 8ft tank. I am a member of the facebook reefi group and I see first hand how much time Dan puts in helping his customers. I seriously urge you to join the group and witness for yourself how dedicated he is, and how amazing these lights preform. Not to mention that 3yr warranty is industry leading. Plus more wattage at HALF the cost of the leading brand l.e.d.'s!!
These are a great option if OP is going to upgrade his tank in the future. The challenge right now is getting good spread without heavy shadowing at the ends, especially with only having 12" front to back. Only way to get good spread is to raise the light, but then deal with the light spillage front to back.
personally RD, I think the lights are a great option for upgrade, new, or just because you have extra money to spend. Seriously though, have you ever seen customer service like what Daniel is doing on his fb page? I have not, in any industry ever.
