Programmable LEDs

I'm starting my first tank (90 gal) and was given most of the equipment including MH lights.

However after talking to the guy at the local store and seeing the Radions in action he's pretty much got me convinced I should start off LED.

I see a lot of recommendations but I don't see any analysis / thoughts on programmable LEDs like the Radions or AI Vega vs non-programmable dimmable LEDs which are A LOT less.

Any thoughts on if it is worth it is worth the cool factor?

 

Well there is always the cool factor with LEDs ecspecially the programmable kind. I started off with halides originally and the tank did well once I found a bulb I was happy with. But after a while I built my own leds and love them and i am having great color and growth for so far after approx 2 yrs. No need for heat concerns less power. Look at it this way I built mine to dim but once the tank was acclamated I never touched my dimmers again unless I'm showing it to someone. But you still can't go wrong with halides ecspecially if they were free ,they have been proven over the yrs. Some of the big name leds are costly up front but there are other options if you choose like reef breeders,DIY, fathom, the new AI and so on. I'm sure others will be able to give you more input.

 

Switch

Did you see your costs go way down with LEDs when you switched?

The environmentalist in me likes the idea of not spending hundreds in bulbs I'll throw away each year + buying/running a chiller to deal with the heat.

As for programmable yeah to show people who come by! #1 feature!

 

As for cost. I did notice my electric bill drop a lot after switching over, but exactly how much I'm not sure but it was a noticeable drop. Biggest thing was the stable tank temp I got. With leds you will find people who love them or hate them. You have to do what's in your best interest both from a financial and aesthetic point of view. But if you did get them I don't think you would be unhappy.

 

Check out these. I have these over my 90 and I think they are awesome.
The customer service is top notch.

CC-120p Programmable Full Spectrum Auto Dimming LED Panel ***PREORDER***

 

leds

Salty Aquatics on facebook has some really nice leds for a good price.

 

I love the combination of LEDs and metal halide. I have radium 20k 250 watt bulbs over my 150 and (2) 20 watt 450nm led floods... The tank looks awesome and I have night time viewing lights to enjoy.

 

So back to programability, any got a strong opinion of if it is worth the $?

 

Depends on preference. I thought it was and love not having to turn lights on and off or dimming.

 

I have radions, a zetlight 3600pro, and an old full spectrum with pot dimmers. I don't think I could handle not having programmable LEDS. I would look into the AI Hydras too. They are very alluring to me!