Kessil AP9X or 2 AI 32HDs?

[BigBabich]

I have a RedSea Reefer 250 (54g) with a Kessil AP9X. I didn't quite like the color and coverage so I added 2 Orphek light bars. Its OK.
I now have the opportunity to pickup 2 AI 32HD Hydras. The total wattage would be about the same. I kind of prefer the AI's I have on my other tank.
Maybe I'm just not dialing in my AP9X as well as I should but I kind of want to switch.
Anyone else feel kind of disappointed in the AP9X or switched to it FROM AI's?

 

[blaxsun]

I'd be more inclined to add a second AP9X myself.

 

[ErehwoN]

I had 3 AI 16s on a smaller tank that were, imo, horrible. When I upgraded the tank (55 to 125g) I went with 3 Kessil AP9X and am extremely satisfied with their performance. I believe the EcoTech's have a bit more control over how the spectrum is presented (mixed) but I haven't really changed that from the default on the Kessils and am having success. Either light will bring success, it's all how you perceive the added value.

Jim

 

[X-37B]

I run 16hds on 2 systems. They grow coral well. They are the lights that got me off halides.
I also run Gen 5 Radions and NP K7 V3 on my 20g nano.

I started my 16hd adventure when a few here and local told me they wont grow sps. I set up a 20g and never looked back. I got such good growth in the 20 that I converted my 45 then my 30g remote.
I went with Radion gen5 on my 80.
Here is the old 20 at day 1 and 10 months later. 18x18x18 nano cube.
I have alot of growth pics if anyone is interested.
I have replaced 3 of my 12, 16's lens due to uv and v channel being run at 140%.
So yea the 16's wont grow acros, lol.

 

[BigBabich]

I had 3 AI 16s on a smaller tank that were, imo, horrible. When I upgraded the tank (55 to 125g) I went with 3 Kessil AP9X and am extremely satisfied with their performance. I believe the EcoTech's have a bit more control over how the spectrum is presented (mixed) but I haven't really changed that from the default on the Kessils and am having success. Either light will bring success, it's all how you perceive the added value.

Jim

Do you run the AP9X through the mobile app or through APEX?

 

[ErehwoN]

Do you run the AP9X through the mobile app or through APEX?

I run it through the Kessil Wifi app. I don't have an Apex.... yet. I will say I'm glad I don't make adjustments very often because it's not the best app and can lose the configuration. But once you set it the way you want, it just works.

Jim

 

[Hurricane Aquatics]

I think the reason you don't like it, is all Kessil look a bit dim over the tank. The AI 32HD looks much brighter.

The AP9X is an excellent light, but so is the AI 32HD if it's tuned correctly. Take your pick, I think you have the best option.