Week 22: Reef tank lighting: What’s on our tanks? The T5 LED Hybrid! | 52 Weeks of Reefing #BRS160

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Most popular comments
for Week 22: Reef tank lighting: What’s on our tanks? The T5 LED Hybrid! | 52 Weeks of Reefing #BRS160

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Comments on YouTube

Justin Johnston - 7 years ago

T5 LED hybrid

Quisite - 7 years ago

Day two of my 52 weeks of reefing marathon, still going strong.

Joshua Jones - 7 years ago

How long should I run my t5 lights?

BulkReefSupplyCom - 7 years ago

In most cases, many reefers shoot for a starting point of around 8hrs and adjust from there. I’m sure you’ll also find some good recommendations on the reef hobbyist forums like Reef2Reef.com and ReefCentral.com! :-)

James Foster - 7 years ago

Great Job as always! I however just found this video series and have realized I made a LOT of mistakes on my tank I'll have to fix. Granted I'm building a Nano reef in a 28G. One thing I was hoping to find is how the light cycle should be set up. For example I have 3 LEDs that produce the following lumens: 120LM, 33LM, 15LM how long/what times should these lights be on/off. They all apparently have a 400 PAR (but that is very questionable data). I'm sure many people would find a little series on this issue very informative.

dolpator - 7 years ago

I guess a great question is, i am running a t5/hybrid running 4 AI hydra 26s, with 4 t5(3blue+, 1purple+) when running these hybrid systems how do you determine the proper settings for your leds

BulkReefSupplyCom - 7 years ago

We should be testing the AI Hydras in future episodes of the BRStv Investigates series, where we'll provide some recommendations for settings! Stay tuned! :-)

Leonel Mondragon - 7 years ago

I know it's an old episode but the information in this video is just what I was looking for!!! Subscribed!!!!!!

BulkReefSupplyCom - 7 years ago

Awesome! Thanks so much! :-)

Skip Attix - 7 years ago

Nice work!! Love the selection. I think I would have gone with just the two T5s in the front instead of two in the back.

Chris Cohan - 7 years ago

I'm not sure if you already answered this question but which t5 bulbs did you decide on for the brs160? What percentages did you choose for the color and intensity on the kessils?? I run a 6 build ati unit and 2 kessil a360 on a 65 gallon long tank so I'm just curious.

BulkReefSupplyCom - 7 years ago

Hey there!

We currently have 4x ATI Blue Plus bulbs for the T5s and our Kessils are probably in the 18K-20K range at around 35% max during mid day. :-)

Doug Blackburn - 7 years ago

I am really enjoying the series, and there is a ton of information, but you guys really make it seem like you have to spend the absolute top dollar on everything to be truly successful. The amount of money in those lights is insane.

BulkReefSupplyCom - 7 years ago

Yeah, this one is up there a bit. It's not the solution for everyone's tank, but definitely a solid option for lighting wall-to-wall SPS tanks!

10. comment for Week 22: Reef tank lighting: What’s on our tanks? The T5 LED Hybrid! | 52 Weeks of Reefing #BRS160

Michael Schlicht - 7 years ago

This video has me thinking I shouldn't jump to led yet. Been waiting awhile already just waiting to stop buying t5 and halide bulbs every year but it seems like they just aren't there yet.

BulkReefSupplyCom - 7 years ago

Personally I'm a T5 follower as well, but with the compelling data from lights like the Phillips Coral Care, I'm thinking we aren't too far off from an equivalent to the ATI!

-Randy

meyerbj81 - 7 years ago

I understand you are using the kessil app for the ap700s but what are you using to control the T5s schedule (probably the apex). If one does not own an apex or similar unit how would this be accomplished? Also, are you ramping them up or just leaving them at full strength?

BulkReefSupplyCom - 7 years ago

Hey there! You are correct, we use the Apex to control the T5s. You could use a simple timer for the T5s that would work just as well! We don't dim the T5's, as they are not a dimmable ballast style light, but they really only come on for the midday photo period. :-)

Tony Black - 7 years ago

your absolutely right. never thought of it like that. thanks guys

Tony Black - 7 years ago

Hey guys, i could really use your help.
I've made my own (current ic loop with 2 dual t5 hybrid light set up) can you help me with the leds power? i currently have the IC on 45% white 75% blues and 20% for both red and green. i dont have a par meter nor lux. so im not sure how strong i should have my ic system. Any info would be much appreciated.

Abdulatif Mohamed - 7 years ago

as per voting out of 7 members three went for a particular brand Giesemann Aurora and 4 members went with 4 different combinations of LED/T5, I think (Giesemann Aurora won) that was supposed to be the light chosen and it is dimmable the 6-ft fixture then again voting never ends up well lol!!! is it a possibility to get a comparison video between the Giesemann AURORA-HYBRID LED/T5 system & Giesemann Halide/T5. there is little information when it comes to Giesemann lights..... I think you can give us a mean breakdown on the pro's & con's and your overall advice thanking you in advance.

BulkReefSupplyCom - 7 years ago

Hopefully we can get some more in-depth videos out about these fixtures. Fingers crossed! :-)

BJ Lochow - 7 years ago

Loved the entire series! It helped me so much setting up my first reef tank last year. I'm already looking at upgrading my lighting setup to the same as the brs 160 setup. I have a 120 gallon aquarium with a marine land Monterrey canopy with dimensions 60" X 18". Would the same setup fit in my canopy?

BJ Lochow - 7 years ago

BulkReefSupplyCom p
Thanks for your response! It should work for my setup except I will probably do 48" Hamilton retros rather than 60". Keep up the great work!

StraitClownin909 - 7 years ago

Man you are so well spoken and fluid. Nice video as always BRS!

Kevin Northington - 7 years ago

I have a 6ft. Tank what T5 fixture should I get that's upgradable in the future if I wanted the sunrise sunset feature budget now?????????????

Samuel Morales - 7 years ago

actually all of them what is your opinion on the led Euphotica dimmable programmable lighting by hobbie bug???

Samuel Morales - 7 years ago

Wow big money for that geismenaurora lighting Da-Damm!!!

20. comment for Week 22: Reef tank lighting: What’s on our tanks? The T5 LED Hybrid! | 52 Weeks of Reefing #BRS160

Adam Ewart - 7 years ago

Loving this series! I gotta say though, as much as it looks like an epic cabinetry work of art...I HATE that hood! after watching 22 episodes with no hood over the tank and loving the clean lines afforded, seeing a hood of any sort has just ruined it all for me...

Keep the series coming!

BulkReefSupplyCom - 7 years ago

I see what you mean. I think it may have a different effect if it were actually in a home or living room environment. Our clown harem tank has a light that hands from the ceiling which looks great in the office, but could be too cold/industrial for home. Either way, it's nice to have options, right? :D

Jay Moor - 7 years ago

Hey,? cool 4 up

Ameen Alyousef - 7 years ago

You r awesome ... Keep up the good work :)

Lovebetta - 7 years ago

What lights you have on 8:09. LED and T5. Ty

BulkReefSupplyCom - 7 years ago

48" LED T5 PowerModule Hybrid - ATI
http://www.bulkreefsupply.com/ati-48-led-t5-powermodule-hybrid.html

Lovebetta - 7 years ago

How can you put together the T5 with AI Prime HD, I Currently have AI and like to put T5 on my Red Sea 350. Ty

oceanslide - 7 years ago

Have you guys added any fans or anything to help cool the bulbs? What temps are best for the t5 bulbs?

BulkReefSupplyCom - 7 years ago

We haven't been, but that may change. We are planning on doing some lighting tests in the future on BRStv Investigates.

oceanslide - 7 years ago

Ok, thanks for he reply! Are you replacing the bulbs in the retrofit more often then you would in a proper t5 fixture?

BulkReefSupplyCom - 7 years ago

We do have a Tunze Aquawind retrofitted into the canopy, but without venting/channeling proper temp control is pretty tough.

Gus Tavella - 8 years ago

what is the schedule you use , like as in do the t5's come on first ? how long before ? basicly that kinda stuff

BulkReefSupplyCom - 8 years ago

T5's are on 9-5, and the LEDs are on 10 to 4

high carb cyclist - 8 years ago

now you have corals in the tank what does your photo period look like with the led and t5? not sure how long to leave my t5 on for

high carb cyclist - 8 years ago

+BulkReefSupplyCom ok thanks for the reply

BulkReefSupplyCom - 8 years ago

T5 are on 9-5, and the LEDs are on 10 to 4 if I remember correctly.

SadieMy - 8 years ago

I like T5 and LED lighting

BulkReefSupplyCom - 8 years ago

We have been really happy with our hybrid retrofit!

Kayvon Torandaz - 8 years ago

Is there a place where you have all the PAR measurements and the power settings? I'm trying to estimate how much PAR a Kessil 360W would produce, but have no idea how high they're turned up in your tests

BulkReefSupplyCom - 8 years ago

All the lights in the test are at 100% :)

30. comment for Week 22: Reef tank lighting: What’s on our tanks? The T5 LED Hybrid! | 52 Weeks of Reefing #BRS160

Clayton Jessup - 8 years ago

Really thinking the same set up for my rimless tank .

Clayton Jessup - 8 years ago

+BulkReefSupplyCom

Thank you so much that's very good to know . I am thinking I may go with he hood set up over my tank. Thank you all so much. Makes me want to do it to match my custom stand like you all did.

BulkReefSupplyCom - 8 years ago

Nope! No venting or fan. We haven't needed it yet, but we do keep the studio's AC pretty cold. I would consider adding one to your setup. Better to have it and not need it than vice versa.

Clayton Jessup - 8 years ago

+BulkReefSupplyCom

Thank you so much for the input , now I am like 80% on going on a hood on my rimless tank. With your retro on your hood with T5 / and the AP700 's do you have it vented at all, or with a circulation fan in it?

BulkReefSupplyCom - 8 years ago

Sweet! We couldn't be happier with ours.

FL SHarkvictim - 8 years ago

Does the Kessil AP700 LED LIGHT FIXTURE have a Sunrise and a Sunset mode so the blues or lunar lights come on 1 hr before your white and 1 hour after your whites turn off when programming??? This is a huge option for me on a light! Let me know?

LoCdogAK47 - 8 years ago

great video ryan, I've been looking into doing LED T5 hybrid but my concern with the T5 retrofit kits I've found is the light spread is too wide without a canopy and i really like the skeleton look (fixture without canopy). Right now i have one radion with two DIY LED strips on either side of the radion for my 4' tank. Do you think keeping my radion center with two 48" AquaticLife marquis marine dual T5 fixtures (or similar) on either side of the radion to be overkill? It'll still have that skeleton look and direct the T5 light down without the need of a canopy.

LoCdogAK47 - 8 years ago

+BulkReefSupplyCom awesome, thank you! I thought the same but figured the tank isn't very wide and pretty shallow so I could raise the fixture up for better spread.

BulkReefSupplyCom - 8 years ago

Honestly that could be a pretty solid choice. You might notice some spotlighting in the middle from the LED, but I think it's worth a shot.

hakan ozdemir - 8 years ago

would you say the 52 has a deeper pars penetration

BulkReefSupplyCom - 8 years ago

You'd likely see more PAR, but you can use the narrow lens on the Radion and still grow coral in a relatively deep tank.

hakan ozdemir - 8 years ago

thanks for the reply. i thought you could manage the hydra via the apex also. is this not correct.

BulkReefSupplyCom - 8 years ago

No problem, not the HD models unfortunately.

hakan ozdemir - 8 years ago

hi, thank you for the superb reviews, However I cant help but notice you did not include the Hydra 52 HD and compare this to the Radion XR30W PRO. im guessing the spread of the 52 is wider but what about the PAR depth. how would you compare the two. thanks

BulkReefSupplyCom - 8 years ago

It's a bit tricky as their are some key differences and similarities between them. I would say the biggest difference is controllability and the number of LEDs. The Hydra has WIFI controllability, where as the Radion has the ability to be operated by an Apex, Reeflink, or your computer. The Hydra has 52 LEDs, which allows for good penetrating power, where the Radion uses your choice of lenses to direct the light where you need it in an efficient way. In my opinion you'd be happy with either. You can see PAR measurements here:

http://media2.cdn.bulkreefsupply.com/media/catalog/product/cache/1/image/515x480/d4e8fcf9aa7a9b8db6e09f216ff5e920/p/a/par52_1.jpg

http://media2.cdn.bulkreefsupply.com/media/catalog/product/cache/1/image/d4e8fcf9aa7a9b8db6e09f216ff5e920/3/0/300256-ecotech-g3-pro-light-distribution.jpg

Dean Fochios - 8 years ago

I have a 40 breeder and an option for two kinds of bulbs. I have beginner corals. What would you recommend to make the tank look good as well as make my corals thrive. I have t5 lighting

BulkReefSupplyCom - 8 years ago

For a two bulb T5HO setup I would recommend running ATI bulbs. A blue plus and an aquablue special will look good in my opinion. It also wouldn't hurt to add two additional bulbs if you have the ability to.

Mervin Jones - 8 years ago

Can you post a complete list of the lighting components for this setup for this tank and also one for a 60" tank. I'm going to purchase one or the other but it would be nice not to have to guess as what I would need to duplicate this lighting. I'm already committed to using two AP 700's. The T5's sound like a good Idea.Thanks

BulkReefSupplyCom - 8 years ago

We used 2 AP700's, 2 Hamilton 5 foot Retrofits with two Azure and two Super Actinics.

oceanslide - 8 years ago

Which bulb combos did you end up using for this tank?

BulkReefSupplyCom - 8 years ago

We used two Azure and two Super Actinics

Tbomb - 8 years ago

Do you have any video on showing how to increase light intensity for coral?

BulkReefSupplyCom - 8 years ago

Ok, very cool. My best advice would be to borrow or purchase some sort of PAR meter. Using a PAR meter will allow you to dial in your lighting, and make setup a breeze.

Tbomb - 8 years ago

I'm still looking for the lighting and coral. I want to get sb reef led light 165w with the timer. The coral is rbta, toadstool, hammer and frogspawn coral

BulkReefSupplyCom - 8 years ago

Not specifically, but I could help. What light are you running and what size tank? what corals are you keeping?

Zhiliang Zhang - 8 years ago

What does the 1/4" air tubing do?

BulkReefSupplyCom - 8 years ago

Oh, gotcha :)

Zhiliang Zhang - 8 years ago

Never mind. I think that was the pump power cord. I thought it was for bean animal overflow.

BulkReefSupplyCom - 8 years ago

Any chance you know at what time of the video it's shown?

David Rosales - 8 years ago

hi, would you be able to share your ap700 schedule? thank you

BulkReefSupplyCom - 8 years ago

+David Rosales If I remember right, we have them them set to max out at about 40% intensity at around 14K. They turn on at 8 ramping to the max intensity and off at 6

NorCalDubber - 8 years ago

What lights would you recommend for a 20 or 30 gallon nano reef? My goal is to have some lps and some easier sps.

BulkReefSupplyCom - 8 years ago

+NorCalDubber Gotcha.It depends on the features you are looking for. but we have a couple Fusions around the office running Radions, Kessils, and AI 52 and they all cover really well.

NorCalDubber - 8 years ago

+BulkReefSupplyCom either the nuvo 20 or 30l, I was looking at the aquamaxx nemo.

BulkReefSupplyCom - 8 years ago

+NorCalDubber What are the dimensions of the tank?

Andrew Siver - 8 years ago

Anemone and soft corals

Andrew Siver - 8 years ago

Hi I have a tall 45 gallon fish only tank that I want to change to a reef tank what should I use for a light

Face - 8 years ago

+Andrew Siver Kessil ap360 might be just perfect depending on how wide and deep the tank really is.

BulkReefSupplyCom - 8 years ago

+Andrew Siver It depends on a few factors. What are the dimension of the tank? What type of corals are you looking to keep?

wazzawar19 - 8 years ago

need advise I start marine still cycling 4 bulb from iquatics 2 white marine at front 1 white and blue plus at the back I thought change one at the front to aqua blue 50/50 I like to do coral when I come to it in few month

BulkReefSupplyCom - 8 years ago

+wazzawar19 Honestly bulb selection comes down to personal preference. If you like a bluer look to your tank that would be a good choice.

The House that Jack Built - 8 years ago

I have been in the hobby for about 12 years and my new light was a hydra 52. I owned the ai sol and recently upgraded. I used to run t5 and they are way too hard to find for reef lights in my area. I have used mh's but the heat was a downfall. I'm just tired of same old t5's not to mention there are degradation characteristics of t5 that I don't like. I totally like the spectrum control of the leds which in nature is varied day by day which acclimated wild caught corals and fish easier. I am an led user now all the way. as long as you buy a quality unit!

The House that Jack Built - 8 years ago

+BulkReefSupplyCom Yes, would actually have liked to have the best of both worlds and a hybrid lighting system but...the LED option i prefer the compact size as I can move and add the fixtures on different tanks or turn them without much trouble. You can always move this Hyrda 52 to another tank not having to worry if a 4' or other size is going to fit and look good above it. Not to mention the t5's will be phased out by law soon I am guessing the way other bulbs types are going. I have even read alot of metal halide will be illegal to sell in 4 years. Theres also some other issues with fouros on the way they are shipped and displayed in stores vertically. There is a particulate gas inside the bulb and when they are stored vertically like in most stores their life and lux ratings vary because of this. It's just a technology from the middle of the 20th century. I would like to move forward in the tech. I also live in Colorado and grow things.... I have converted from metal halides and high pressure sodium bulbs to LED in the growrooms also. While LED is more expensive, IMO your getting a better technology that has many years of refinement yet to come and once it does, I think in both reefing and indoor horticulture, LED's are where it's going.

BulkReefSupplyCom - 8 years ago

+The House that Jack Built Good point! Have you looked at any LED T5 Hybrid options?

Mystic Joker - 8 years ago

Would of liked to hear how you are controlling your lights and the setup as to times each is on and off.

BulkReefSupplyCom - 8 years ago

+Mystic Joker Simply timers right now. Eventually we'll install a controller on the tank however :)

Jason Spacek - 8 years ago

I'm finalizing the design of a 250 gallon build (72in long) and stuck on the lighting. Everything will be located in a dedicated "fish" room with the tank flush mounted against a cutout in the wall so I'm not concerned about the aesthetics of the fixture. It will be Apex controlled and I want to go with the best T5/LED hybrid set-up I can, but I don't want to pay for looks. DIY is no problem so should I build a hood and do a retrofit or just go with a production unit? Aside from life support, controllability/dimming via Apex are a priority so I was thinking 48" T5 retrofit with multiple Kessil 360's.

BulkReefSupplyCom - 8 years ago

+Jason Spacek Before getting to the end of your comment I was thinking retrofit T5 with Kessil LEDs. That would be a slick setup IMO. With that said, if you like to tinker, then a DIY LED and T5 Retrofit setup would be a fun project!

BulkReefSupplyCom - 8 years ago

Patrick Egal - 8 years ago

how is ability to access the tank for maintenance/water changes with this suspended fixture?

BulkReefSupplyCom - 8 years ago

+Patrick Egal Luckily a lot of the work can be done around the hood since it is smaller in perimeter, but if need be we can push it out of the way, or even lift it higher.

50. comment for Week 22: Reef tank lighting: What’s on our tanks? The T5 LED Hybrid! | 52 Weeks of Reefing #BRS160

eric85855 - 8 years ago

The AP700 doesn't support controllers. Isn't that going to be an issue later?

BulkReefSupplyCom - 8 years ago

+eric85855 It could be depending on the setup, but the lights do have their own inboard control through an iPad app that we'll likely continue to use.

googIereallysucks - 8 years ago

Anyone know what size tank that is at the 2:53 mark? Thanks for your help!

BulkReefSupplyCom - 8 years ago

+googIereallysucks That's a 2 foot by 2 foot x 2 foot 60 gallon cube.

B dog man - 8 years ago

I've got a 50 gallon bowfront saltwater aquarium and I am looking to upgrade the light for my bubble tip anemones. Ive got two options, one of the 165w mars led full spectrum lights,or a 346w at metal halide and t5ho combo that also has 4 blue leds with it. which would be better for anemones as I'm confused about led lighting requirements for them

B dog man - 8 years ago

+The House that Jack Built. I completely understand this now. lol sometimes I just think they're picky, especially when others are growing and looking great.

The House that Jack Built - 8 years ago

in my opinion BTA's are a crapshoot. I have owned alot of them over 12 years of doing marine tanks. I have had some live for years in some bad lighting enviroments and others die quickly under ideal lighting. In all honesty metal halides and my newer LED AI units have done the best for BTA's and Sebae's. I never had luck with them under t5's....BUT the livestock vendors and retailers they came from almost in every case has housed them under t5's with no problems... Me, not so much... I have a purple tip Sebae hosting a pair of gold striped maroon clowns now for 2 years under a single AI Sol and the anemone loves it. I just upgraded to a AI Hydra 52HD and now with more power than the Sol, the Sebae looks even better! I am an LED posterboy now...

Christopher Chacon - 8 years ago

Jesus that's a lot of cash.

Chris Dinsdale - 8 years ago

Why did you decide not to put on a splash guard? Has a maintenance advantage but not sure how it would affect light or heat around the bulbs.

First Massage - 8 years ago

please tell me what "suspension mounting kit" you used to install the hood. I love the floating look.

BulkReefSupplyCom - 8 years ago

+First Massage There are a number you can use based on what light you are hanging. http://aquarium.bulkreefsupply.com/search?w=hanging%20kit&asug=

I believe we used this one: http://www.bulkreefsupply.com/ap700-hanging-kit.html

Ken Rosecrans - 8 years ago

what about hydra 26s

BulkReefSupplyCom - 8 years ago

+Ken Rosecrans We've actually got one or two setup here in the office. :)

Mermaid Ocean - 8 years ago

so much to learn.

BulkReefSupplyCom - 8 years ago

+Mermaid Ocean We're always here if you have questions!

eric olsen - 8 years ago

Thank you, If I wanted to go with Kessil's for a 30" wide 16" high innovative marine lagoon tank, would you suggest one 360w or two 160 lights.

BulkReefSupplyCom - 8 years ago

+eric olsen I would rock two A160W's :)

Klondike Kitty - 8 years ago

Hi Ryan, would love to see a finished shot with the canopy on. I'm curious how it's attached to the tank? I have a DSA 140 tank and canopy and currently have 2 AI Hydras centered front to back on the canopy. I cut holes in the canopy that matched the shape of the lights and use mounting tape to hold the lights.

Thinking of this option, but I assume you don't want to mount the T5's under the leds? My only option I think is to mount them towards the back half of the canopy and not sure if the light would reach all parts of the tank that way?

Thanks,

Michael from Stillwater MN

BulkReefSupplyCom - 8 years ago

+Klondike Kitty Ok, awesome. We ran one here, and still might have one over a CS agent's tank. We love them!

Klondike Kitty - 8 years ago

After numerous calls today, I am going with the 48" Spectra. My tank is a DSA 140, 60 x 20 x27 deep. I am going to use the Giesemann hanging kit.

BulkReefSupplyCom - 8 years ago

+Klondike Kitty Hmmm, that does sound like a tricky situation Michael. Our light caopy is suspended using stainless steel cable. What size t5's are you looking to install and what is the length of that tank?

Jane Doe - 8 years ago

Great video and tons of info but with the hood so close to the surface of the tank are you moving it if you have to really get in there? I have a hood/light that is low like that and frankly, I kinda hate having to contort myself to rescue upside down snails, fallen corals etc. I know you guys probably have a solution.

BulkReefSupplyCom - 8 years ago

+Jane Doe Surprisingly we kind of just work around it. We have it on wire cables so we can move it out of the way if need be. :)

pam bazet - 8 years ago

I have a 180 and changed out my lighting from metal halides to AI less. I have 3 of the 52 HD, this was before the Primes, is that enough lighting for a reef this size.

BulkReefSupplyCom - 8 years ago

+pam bazet I would start with some easier corals that catch your eye like soft corals and some LPS until the tank matures. Then you could start looking into SPS later on :)

pam bazet - 8 years ago

+BulkReefSupplyCom Well I had a bit of a disaster. I've had my tank for 18 years and started getting a lot of green hair algae so I had a company come out to see what they thought. They thought it would be best to change out the sump, etc, update it so they did a water change and set my heat to 79-80 and everything died. Now I'm rebuilding, what should I stay away from since i'm starting over.

BulkReefSupplyCom - 8 years ago

+pam bazet What type of corals are you keeping? That should do pretty well on most 6 foot tanks :)

Tim Kotanko - 8 years ago

Curious why you didn't simply put an appropriate power bar up in hood and just run one cable out instead of 4?

BulkReefSupplyCom - 8 years ago

+Tim Kotanko We wanted to leave our options open for installing a controller in the future, but that is a really solid idea regardless.

Gazi Sahil - 8 years ago

WIth AI PRime on a 30gallon tank what type of corals I can have ?
I am want to have 3to 5 sps and lps corals with mushrooms and polyps and zoos and softies..
E.g. 3sps... 1 Plate ! 2 acros
2 frog spawn and hammer
Softies, mushroom, polyps and zoos...
So is the light beneficial ?
And can it help the lps and sps ?

BulkReefSupplyCom - 8 years ago

+Gazi Rayhan It can also depend on your other equipment and the tank dimensions, but the Prime is capable of supporting those corals with clever placement.

Rory Vermeulen - 8 years ago

Hi Ryan is there a thread somewhere about jason's tank? Thx

Rory Vermeulen - 8 years ago

+BulkReefSupplyCom Thx! How could i have missed these.

BulkReefSupplyCom - 8 years ago

+Rory Vermeulen No threads unfortunately, but we do have a few videos that show off the tank a bit more.

https://youtu.be/17MSaGIwfuI

https://youtu.be/sLo5u2BGG9s

Keith Derr - 8 years ago

I love the merging of old and new styles of lighting. Plus showing how anybody can easily combine them to form an optimal setup. I'll definitely review this mini series before my next light up grade, your thoroughness and objectivity to facts, vrs opinion is greatly appreciated. I do NOT feel like you are trying to sell any one particular brand. Nice job!

BulkReefSupplyCom - 8 years ago

+Keith Derr Thanks Keith! Glad you like the series. Feel free to contact us if you have any questions :)

Gary Witham - 8 years ago

Hi, a reef beginner here. still in the planning stage. I had already decided on the kessil ap700 over a red sea reefer 350 but now this video has made me think again... i just dont get the advantage of adding T5`s making a hybrid option. i thought the led would be enough... now i`m confused :)

BulkReefSupplyCom - 8 years ago

+Gary Witham this series is a five part series on lighting. Start with the first one which is the goals of lightning a reef tank.

To sum it up an hour or so of video in a couple sentences T5 provides a diffused light that almost eliminates shadowing with an even intensity and known spectrum. Led is a single point of light with a ton of advantages but easily shadowed, and spectrum isn't as well understood.

Remember all of these lighting sources work this series was about understanding how LEDs , halides and T5 work so we can maximize success with each as well as combine the technologies for optimal results.

happy93384 - 9 years ago

Hey how many Kessil 360 we would you put on this tank and does it have the sunrise and sunset. Does the t5 effect the shimmer and next video can you show the shimmer just led on and then both on

BulkReefSupplyCom - 9 years ago

+happy93384 If we were to go with the A360We, we would probably recommend 4 or so. The T5 actually makes the shimmer look even more natural, and improves the overall look of the tank in my opinion. :)

floydpros - 9 years ago

how long do you run the t5 vs LED. I've got a marine orbit pro and only 2 48" ati coral plus bulbs. I've been running LED lights 8 hours and t5 only 4 to replicate mid day

BulkReefSupplyCom - 9 years ago

+floydpros We actually don't have the final program dialed in yet. It sounds like you've got a pretty good schedule going. :)

Andrew Lucfr - 9 years ago

I love my Giesemann Aurora Hybrid!

BulkReefSupplyCom - 9 years ago

+Andrew Lucfr We've got a pair over our frag system. Love them!

Jon71586 - 9 years ago

no cooling fan?

BulkReefSupplyCom - 9 years ago

+Jon71586 Ahhh, gotcha! We may add something later, potentially during the controller videos, but so far with the canopy over the tank it's remained cool.

Jon71586 - 9 years ago

+BulkReefSupplyCom I would figure you would want to vent/cool the canopy.

BulkReefSupplyCom - 9 years ago

+Jon71586 On which light?

Rachael Hamilton - 9 years ago

Ryan has gotten so amazing at these videos. watching the old videos is so weird ! his personality on screen really shines. love this series and it prompted my 3rd generation koralia and hydor heater buy.
cant wait til there's coral in the tank

BulkReefSupplyCom - 9 years ago

+Rachael Hamilton Thanks Rachael!

NYCity Cichlids - 9 years ago

Nice.

Christopher Sanchez - 9 years ago

Ryan bats another one out the park! I am expecting you to continue this trend of each video being better than the previous! No pressure.I really liked your choice on the BRS160 and would have never thought of using a turquoise colored bulb (did not know they had one). For my tank, the CLS110, I am using the 4 hydra 26's. You really have me thinking of adding HO to supplement, but I will only be able to fit 1 HO bulb on each side of the LED modules (I will have to DIY with the LET's as I don't know of a single bulb dimmable retrofit). IMO, the hydras cover the actinic and white spectrums very well, but really lack in the cyan range. So for the HO, I was thinking of using just the turquoise bulbs only; one front and one back. I could do a daylight in one and actinic in the other, but was concerned that would give me a weird shadow effect.I will be controlling with an Apex. I would dim the HO bulbs in conjunction with the LEDs. Any recommendations for a dimmable HO ballast (Apex 0-10v). I could do either one or two ballasts.

BulkReefSupplyCom - 9 years ago

+Christopher Sanchez I'm partial to bluer bulbs, but it's really all personal preference.

Christopher Sanchez - 9 years ago

+BulkReefSupplyCom Perfect. I will hook these up to two LET single retrofits. Any thoughts on the bulb choice?

BulkReefSupplyCom - 9 years ago

+Christopher Sanchez Haha, thanks. No pressure indeed! Sounds like you've got a plan for a slick lighting setup. I would check out the Dimmable ballasts from ATI found here:

http://www.bulkreefsupply.com/t5-dimmable-ballast-24w-39w-ati.html

http://www.bulkreefsupply.com/t5-dimmable-ballast-54w-ati.html

Brian Zimmerman - 9 years ago

Thanks for all your efforts here! As a relatively new reefer, these videos are invaluable! Nice work!

BulkReefSupplyCom - 9 years ago

+Brian Zimmerman Thanks Brian! Glad you like it, we are happy to help!

Bryan Tabares - 9 years ago

Production: 10-Good graphics, great flow from point to point. No awkward shots. No stumbling of words. Great energy from the host. Clothing color stays consistent.
Lighting: 10-Very soft and not distracting. Very little reflections of lighting equipment seen on products.
Editing: 10. Great timing between product shots and shots of Host.
Audio: 8. Great isolation of the host's voice.
Direction: 10. A standard of quality all PR and marketing departments of this industry should follow.

Also just sold me on starting a reef tank.

BulkReefSupplyCom - 9 years ago

+Bryan Tabares Wow, thank you Bryan! Please let us know if you have any questions once you start setting up that tank :)

dr salomon - 9 years ago

Thank you very much for the lighting videos. I had not appreciated previously how unnatural it was to have a lack of diffuse light. After seeing so many corals shade themselves out with my LED only solution, I recently added T5 supplementation to my canopy inspired by your video. Especially useful was your image of a beach with the sun out and stars in the sky and no atmosphere. That image really brought it home for me.

BulkReefSupplyCom - 9 years ago

+dr salomon Nice!

dr salomon - 9 years ago

+BulkReefSupplyCom Yep Miro retrofit.

BulkReefSupplyCom - 9 years ago

+dr salomon Happy we could help! What T5 solution did you go with? Retrofit?

Brett Abbott - 9 years ago

Awesome video. Is that Ryan's tank at 12:22? Really nice setup!

What happened to the firefish?

Excited for next week.

BulkReefSupplyCom - 9 years ago

+Brett Abbott Yup! That's my tank. The firefish like to hide, but honestly we don't know how many are still there. Occasionally you'll see a few at a time, but never the same amount. lol

Phil Cusimano - 9 years ago

Great video Ryan, I like the idea of the T5's and LED's. After much pondering I've finally made a decision to go with LED and T5's in my Hood. I think it will work very well for me. Was originally planning on a Metal and T5 retro, because they've always work well for me. But I think it time to incorporate same new & old tech. Happy Reefing!

BulkReefSupplyCom - 9 years ago

+Phil Cusimano Nice! I think you'll end up being pretty happy with it :)

Thomas Gionet - 9 years ago

Same lighting I'll be going with for my 40 breeder

BulkReefSupplyCom - 9 years ago

+Thomas Gionet Awesome!

Reed Cardon - 9 years ago

That was an awesome video. I'm still doing research before getting into to hobby and had decided that for my dream tank I would do something similar, a T5-LED hybrid solution. Good to know my inexperienced, yet slightly educated opinion is in line with what the industry experts like too.

BulkReefSupplyCom - 9 years ago

+Eric Manning They are very sharp looking lights!

BulkReefSupplyCom - 9 years ago

+Reed Cardon Awesome! Good choice :P We've been really happy with ours so far.

Eric Manning - 9 years ago

+Reed Cardon check out nano box lights. They make an awesome t5 LED hybrid. Nano box lighting is as elite as you can get in custom LED lights. The owner/maker of the lights is on the reef forum nano reef a lot. You can check him out there. I personally went with an AI Prime over my tank because of cost. But if cost isn't an issue his T5/LED Hybrid is top notch.

BulkReefSupplyCom - 9 years ago

+T Surro Good choice :P

Andrew Maliberan - 9 years ago

I think you picked the best lighting option for that tank. It looks so cool, I Can't wait for the next episode... :-D

Andrew Maliberan - 9 years ago

It looks so good I can't wait for it to be filled with thriving fish and corals... Good luck :-D

BulkReefSupplyCom - 9 years ago

+Joseph Andrew Maliberan Yeah, we are really happy with how it turned out!

David Donahue - 9 years ago

Great video. I think T5\Led is the way to go. Especially for SPS. Where did you get those on tank shoulder stands for the geiseman I saw in one of the video shots?

BulkReefSupplyCom - 9 years ago

+david donahue It depends on the light you have, but you can find them here:

http://www.bulkreefsupply.com/mounting-leg-set-giesemann-1.html

http://www.bulkreefsupply.com/mounting-leg-set-giesemann.html

Rad Perez - 9 years ago

Another great video, like the setup....

BulkReefSupplyCom - 9 years ago

+Rad Perez Thanks Rad!

Shane Reich - 9 years ago

I went with the 4x39watt sun power units, and i use the radion to simulate sunrise and sunset aswell as shimmer, i have this combination over my 1 meter Cube 600mm height,
I have noticed a huge difference in my sps in the fact that there are polys all over now as apposed to the underside being bare, T5 is by far the best, but with the combo of LED it for me = Gold Standard!

BulkReefSupplyCom - 9 years ago

+Shane Reich Very nice!

Ted R. - 9 years ago

I was going to add some T5 retrofits to my two kessil a360we's. Great minds think alike.

BulkReefSupplyCom - 9 years ago

+Ted Regnerus Sweet! Good choice ;)

David Donahue - 9 years ago

same, buying a matrix II to run on my next tank alongside my existing kessil.

Blake J - 9 years ago

Great sale! I loaded up on RODI maintenance stuff and expanded my 4 stage water saver to 6! Cool!

BulkReefSupplyCom - 9 years ago

+Blake J Very nice!

Ryan Deniston - 9 years ago

Great Video! Any Suggestions what I should use on a Red Sea Reefer 450? Looking for a affordable solution for my reef tank i am getting ready to build.

BulkReefSupplyCom - 9 years ago

+Ryan Deniston My choice would be something that includes 5 foot T5's. The Giesemann Infiniti, Matrixx, or Aurora would look sweet!

Scott SPS - 9 years ago

love this series, but as mentioned this ended up being pretty expensive if I spent more money on my lights then my wife's wedding ring that would be bad. Would be great if further down the road if you guys have time to put something together for us budget challenge folks. Keep up the great work.

BulkReefSupplyCom - 9 years ago

+Scott SPS (loui) Thanks Scott! It certainly doesn't have to be this crazy. A couple AI Prime's with T5 retros for example could be a much cheaper option depending on the tank size. :P

Ellery Wong - 9 years ago

Excellent now I will be testing adding my own t5 to my setups as well since they are all 100% LEDs today. Still have my old PFO 250W MH just in case though.

BulkReefSupplyCom - 9 years ago

+Ellery Wong Nice!

Precision Reef Systems - 9 years ago

Wow! Stunning shimmer on that setup - the T5's seem to soften the AP700 glitter lines in a pleasant way.
I'm fully in the T5 - Halide camp if cost is no object, but I've had great success adding supplemental T5's to previously LED only customer aquariums.

BulkReefSupplyCom - 9 years ago

+Precision Reef Systems Thanks! We were super surprised with how natural looking the light turned out.

CreepyMonkey HeadGame - 9 years ago

Thanks I'll think about it but first I need to get a new light I'm thinking about getting the kessil A160WE Tuna Blue LED with the Gooseneck
stand

BulkReefSupplyCom - 9 years ago

+CreepyMonkey HeadGame Gotcha. I would personally look into one. They do a great job at keeping the fish in the water :P

CreepyMonkey HeadGame - 9 years ago

+BulkReefSupplyCom no

BulkReefSupplyCom - 9 years ago

+CreepyMonkey HeadGame Bummer, are you using a screen top?

Matthew Gold - 9 years ago

just curious to know why you say 5foot / 80w t5 units are not dimmable? i own a giesemann matrixx 2 8x80w / 5foot dimtec dimmable unit.

ElementL116 - 8 years ago

+Matthew Gold Ditto. I've had 60" T5's on dimmable ballasts on my 6' display tank for 6 years now. I built the setup from scratch so it's not a fixture, but on a custom build lighting rack along with some halides. Profilux controller controls the dimming.

Chango305 - 9 years ago

BRS sure knows what they're talking about, awesome vid.

BulkReefSupplyCom - 9 years ago

+Chango305 Thanks Chango305! Glad you liked it!

coralinealgae - 9 years ago

This was the best series of BRS videos yet. The amount of useful information is staggering. Well done guys.

BulkReefSupplyCom - 9 years ago

+coralinealgae Thanks! Glad you're liking it so far!

Shane Reich - 9 years ago

Awsome light choice! From the first light video i knew you would go a hybrid!
Im running a XR30w and 2 ATI T5 units, the results are uncanning!
Looking forward to more livestock ,
Keep it up BRS team, you all rock!

BulkReefSupplyCom - 9 years ago

+Shane Reich Sweet! How many bulbs on the ATI lights?

100. comment for Week 22: Reef tank lighting: What’s on our tanks? The T5 LED Hybrid! | 52 Weeks of Reefing #BRS160

Nado - 9 years ago

that lighting setup, money!

Tae Grant - 9 years ago

I new you was ganna do the Ap700 and T5 hybrid same is going on my 365!!!!

Tae Grant - 9 years ago

will do!

BulkReefSupplyCom - 9 years ago

+Tae Grant Cool! Sounds like one heck of a setup, be sure to send some photos once it's up and running!

Steve Brady - 9 years ago

that's what I run kessils and t5. great combo!

BulkReefSupplyCom - 9 years ago

+Steve Brady Very nice!

Blackbookproduct10ns - 9 years ago

Also curious what t5 bulbs were used and reasoning/thought behind it

BulkReefSupplyCom - 9 years ago

+Blackbookproduct10ns We used a mix of 2 Super Actinic and 2 Azure.

W - 9 years ago

BRS has come such a long way in the last 5 years love to see a reefing business thrive!!! Good Luck with your future endeavors guys!

BulkReefSupplyCom - 9 years ago

+Dustoff100000 Thanks! It's been a journey, thanks for sticking with us :)

BulkReefSupplyCom - 9 years ago

+jayme alcay Sweet!

russmaleartist - 9 years ago

Trying to make sense out of an endless barrage of products: each claiming superiority in service, fulfilling its claims, and providing years of reliability and results . . . can be overwhelming and frustrating to say the least. That is why all your extremely helpful, informative, and jam-packed with guidelines to allow one to make a wise decision is most appreciative. Hope your Thanksgiving was filled with much with which to be thankful in your lives . . . and that the coming Christmas season will bring hope, peace, and good will in a rather opposite world filled with hopelessness, fear, and instability. Be well!

BulkReefSupplyCom - 9 years ago

+russmaleartist Wow, thank you! You as well, and we're happy and excited to be able to produce and share this info with all of you folks. :)

Synergy Reef - 9 years ago

Great video! We chose the giesemann spectra with 2 x 400w radiums and T5s for our new build. Adding supplemental leds also.

BulkReefSupplyCom - 9 years ago

+Synergy Reef Nice! Very good choice guys!

Wichita Falls Fishkeeper - 9 years ago

Great video.

BulkReefSupplyCom - 9 years ago

+aManUnderGrace Thanks!

Tim Kotanko - 9 years ago

For the guys with the LED (radion in particular)... can programs be shared??

BulkReefSupplyCom - 9 years ago

+Tim Kotanko Yup, they can be!

GENISIS1TWENTYONE - 9 years ago

Led/t5!! Great choice, I love the results I get from the led/t5 hybrid lighting I have over my 140

BulkReefSupplyCom - 9 years ago

+GENISIS1TWENTYONE Nice! Frankly I was shocked with how natural it looks over the tank.

reefer boy - 9 years ago

what t5 bulbs did you use?

BulkReefSupplyCom - 9 years ago

+reefer boy We used two Azure and two Super Actinics

Steve Brady - 9 years ago

what t5 bulbs did u choose?

BulkReefSupplyCom - 9 years ago

+Steve Brady We went with two Azure and two Super Actininic :)

nick castellani - 9 years ago

+Steve Brady Get 6-8 bulbs. Its worth it. 2x ATI Aquablue Special 2x ATI Blue Plus 1x ATI Actinic 1x ATI Coral Plus(or) ATI Purple Plus. Id imagine the new Giesmann bulbs are on par with ATI. But ive had long term success with ATI and i dont see any reason to switch.

jjiron706 - 9 years ago

Still need to pick up my jaw after seeing 2 ap700 and t5.

BulkReefSupplyCom - 9 years ago

+jjiron706 I did the same exact thing once we got it fired up. Stunning!

Alexey Ivanov - 9 years ago

Thank you for the video. Just one question please. If you would have a small tank 18" cube with Radion XR30w PRO Gen3 and you're planning to upgrade in one year to Reefer 350 (47″) tank how you would setup the light for the new tank by looking at what you've already. And do you think it's worth to change the Radion XR30w PRO Gen3 to Kessil ap700 ? Thank you guys!

BulkReefSupplyCom - 9 years ago

+Alexey Ivanov No problem, happy to help!

Alexey Ivanov - 9 years ago

+BulkReefSupplyCom Thank you very much for your help and time.

BulkReefSupplyCom - 9 years ago

+Alexey Ivanov Yup! You might need to build some sort of aluminum bracket or a wooden canopy to hold them but it's possible!

Alexey Ivanov - 9 years ago

+BulkReefSupplyCom Thank you very much and do you think I would be able to add T5 like you did here also?

BulkReefSupplyCom - 9 years ago

+Alexey Ivanov I would probably purchase a second Gen 3 when you are ready and mount the two together using the Radion rail system.

S Davey - 9 years ago

Superb, thanks. Wondering how I can add T5s to my Radion G3 XR30 pro setup

S Davey - 9 years ago

+BulkReefSupplyCom good idea, cheers.

BulkReefSupplyCom - 9 years ago

+S Davey I'm doing a similar thing at home. Planning on using some aluminum channel to make a frame.

Ted Y - 9 years ago

The Black Friday sale is killing me, I'm going broke!

BulkReefSupplyCom - 9 years ago

+Ted Y Haha too funny! Someone is going to have a pretty sweet tank ;)

Ted Y - 9 years ago

+BulkReefSupplyCom About a $1000 worth of equipment and supplies. Lights, reactors, par meter, test kits, gfo, ect. I know some folks might think that isn't a lot of $$$, but to my wife that is a reason to cause a crime scene. The UPS man might have to cross the yellow tape to get to my front door. I think I need that rehab center you see on tv, I think It's called "Passages Mailbu". Haha

BulkReefSupplyCom - 9 years ago

+Ted Y Haha, yeah this hobby can do that :P What have you got so far?

DurocShark - 9 years ago

All the $$$ but it's beautiful.

BulkReefSupplyCom - 9 years ago

+DurocShark Definitely not the cheapest option, but man, seeing it over this tank makes it worth it. Super impressed with how it turned out.

ibi nyth - 9 years ago

+DurocShark Haha I was thinking the same thing... at least 2k in lighting

Robert Y. - 9 years ago

Awesome job on the information give!n I took advantage of the Black Friday deals myself :) Keep up the great work looking forward to what goes inside the tank!

BulkReefSupplyCom - 9 years ago

+Robert Y. Sweet! Every bit helps :)

Robert Y. - 9 years ago

+BulkReefSupplyCom I didn't get a lot but I picked up some Red Sea products like coral colors and reef energy, also some fish food and test refills. Just the every day reefing stuff!

BulkReefSupplyCom - 9 years ago

+Robert Y. Thanks! What did you get?

Ehsan Adib Shabahang - 9 years ago

Firstttttttt

About Week 22: Reef tank lighting: What’s on our tanks? The T5 LED Hybrid! | 52 Weeks of Reefing #BRS160

The "Week 22: Reef tank lighting: What’s on our tanks? The T5 LED Hybrid! | 52 Weeks of Reefing #BRS160" video is part of the reef tank, salt water category, which contains similar videos like this one.