Light recommendations

Chadthresher · Feb 15, 2016

I just purchased a 20x20x8 frag tank from Advanced Acrylics with over flow and two racks. I am trying to pick the light I need. I am interested in having soft corals mainly and maybe try a few acros someday. I had ordered the Kessil 160 but the place was out of stock and refunded my money so now I am back looking again. I am looking at the xt-nano. I think I want a hanging/arm fixture, I like the top viewing option.

AllSignsPointToFish · Feb 15, 2016

AI Prime or Hydra 26 might be a good starting point if you can't find a Kessil.

AllSignsPointToFish · Feb 15, 2016

Depending on your needs, you could also try SB reef lights or Reef Breeders.

Ann_A · Feb 15, 2016

It might be overkill, but the Radion Xr15w is a great light. I'm running 2 on my tank right now and have no complaints so far.

Chadthresher · Feb 15, 2016

I could find a Kessil ez just rethinking things. The Kessil 160 is about $370 if I want to control it, Prime is about $200 and the XT-nano is about $180. Just wondering if the Kessil is worth the difference. Thanks for the extra options I appreciate it.. Looking like nobody is recommending the XT nano. I personally like the look of the Prime and XT-Nano. I personally dont like the Kessils looks but I have read alot of good things about the light.

Jimbo662 · Feb 15, 2016

I had a kessil 360 on my cube last year. It did a good job. I upgraded it to the XR15 and realized how I missed the programmability and being able to change the look of the tank with the different color leds. I also just got two of the Primes for a new tank I'm setting up. I think for the price they would be the best bang for the buck. Depending on the budget and look you want...XR15 is more expensive and the RMS mounting arm is pretty bulky while the Prime is only $200 and the mounting arm is a lot more basic and streamlined.

AllSignsPointToFish · Feb 15, 2016

The Kessil A160 should be closer to $239, not $370. I'm not sure who's trying to sell you one for that price, but that's definitely not a good deal. Now if that's an A360, then that's a pretty good price.

AllSignsPointToFish · Feb 15, 2016

Jimbo662 said:
I had a kessil 360 on my cube last year. It did a good job. I upgraded it to the XR15 and realized how I missed the programmability and being able to change the look of the tank with the different color leds. I also just got two of the Primes for a new tank I'm setting up. I think for the price they would be the best bang for the buck. Depending on the budget and look you want...XR15 is more expensive and the RMS mounting arm is pretty bulky while the Prime is only $200 and the mounting arm is a lot more basic and streamlined.

Can the Radions be used as moonlights? Do they have the same issue as the Kessil with only being able to go down to around 13% intensity?

Jimbo662 · Feb 15, 2016

I assume you can...I never did that with the XR15. I've got 3 of the XR30's on my big tank...I set all channels to 0% and set one of the blue channels to 5%

Chadthresher · Feb 15, 2016

Thanks for the help. The XR15 looks great I hadnt even seen that light yet. It might be a touch out of my price range at this point. Thanks again. Now after reading the help I do like the control I would have with the Prime. I think I may give it a shot.

Kungpaoshizi · Feb 15, 2016

I use my xr30w pro's at 1% for moonlight, works fine.
I too would suggest just splurging on the radions. Sucks they're so much, but the programming interface and the customer support really does make it worthwhile.. (that's aside from the fact I see faster growth than I did with my 14k phoenix mh)

Jimbo662 · Feb 15, 2016

Also with the prime you can control them out of the box without a controller. Once connected to your router / wifi you can use the MyAI app on your phone or computer.