T5s vs. Blades

CheifReeferNB

Community Member
View Badges
Joined
Nov 5, 2025
Messages
92
Reaction score
53
Location
Massachusetts
Rating - 0%
0   0   0
I am have a 5 ft x 2.5ft tank that I’m trying to convert to sps. I want to add either a bank of 4 T5s or 2 AI blades. I can’t decide which would be better. The primary goal would be to eliminate shadowing.

I currently have a meridian 63 with two edge bars, but the lenses on both are very direct and don’t have great light distribution.
 
I am have a 5 ft x 2.5ft tank that I’m trying to convert to sps. I want to add either a bank of 4 T5s or 2 AI blades. I can’t decide which would be better. The primary goal would be to eliminate shadowing.

I currently have a meridian 63 with two edge bars, but the lenses on both are very direct and don’t have great light distribution.
On my ext 170 60×30×21 I run 2 photon 50's meridians were not out yet. 2 gives a complete blanket of light no shadowing. I also run 3 or4 uv/v bars.
I would have ran 2 meridians if they were out for my system.
20260525_134128.jpg
20260525_134102.jpg
 
I am have a 5 ft x 2.5ft tank that I’m trying to convert to sps. I want to add either a bank of 4 T5s or 2 AI blades. I can’t decide which would be better. The primary goal would be to eliminate shadowing.

I currently have a meridian 63 with two edge bars, but the lenses on both are very direct and don’t have great light distribution.
Pick a color..:)

https://www.quanta-lights.com/products/4-helix-light-bar-combo?variant=46795803984029
I’ve seen a lot of people liken these to T5s. I am researching them now, I am trying to find more info on spread. Can’t beat the price regardless.
 

TOP 10 Trending Threads

WHEN NUISANCE ALGAE OR CYANO FIRST APPEARS, WHAT DO YOU DO FIRST?

  • Manually remove it and observe

    Votes: 5 16.1%
  • Retest nutrients and other parameters

    Votes: 8 25.8%
  • Adjust flow or lighting

    Votes: 0 0.0%
  • Reduce or change feeding

    Votes: 0 0.0%
  • Add or strengthen the cleanup crew

    Votes: 4 12.9%
  • Improve filtration or nutrient export

    Votes: 1 3.2%
  • Use a targeted treatment

    Votes: 0 0.0%
  • Wait and let the tank find its balance

    Votes: 10 32.3%
  • Phone a friend...

    Votes: 0 0.0%
  • It depends (explain in the comments)

    Votes: 3 9.7%
Back
Top
Home
Post thread…
Market
What's new