Marineland LED Reef capable lighting system ?

[MeanFishBoston]

I have a Cardiff 24 gallon aquarium system and I need to get lights for the top of it. I was wondering if anyone has any thoughts on the Marineland LED Reef capable 18-24" System ? Will it be enough lighting for corals ?


This it what the ad says:

Correct spectral output and intensity for Reef Aquariums

Three mode switch for all on, all off, or lunar (night) light

1W 10,000k Whites / 460 nm blue LED's

 

[ava420]

for about the same money you could probably build one with better LEDs from rapidled.com.. get one of there kits and build it into a canopy.

I'm doing this same project this coming weekend...

 

[MeanFishBoston]

for about the same money you could probably build one with better LEDs from rapidled.com.. get one of there kits and build it into a canopy.

I'm doing this same project this coming weekend...

Thanks but I have no skills or time for that stuff.

 

[jpnasty]

i got one in a trade a while back and it is pretty pointless for any corals.... im just using it as a sump light

 

[The Ng Thing]

At first they seem almost too good to be true. I'd save up for something better or invest in something that has more reputation.

 

[jpnasty]

pretty much you have to build it yourself if you want a high end fixture. what do you want to grow?

 

[MeanFishBoston]

Thanks Guys , To be honest, im not sure what I want to grow. Im new to salt and the tank didnt come with a light so I just want to get on light and make sure its good enough that I wont need to upgrade down the road...I like zoas , mushrooms , frog spawn , stuff like that....im not really a fan of the hard corals.

 

[DoctaQ]

probably not enough for much...maybe low light coral in a shallow system

 

[pallobi]

imo, and absolutely nothing more, everything marineland makes, aside from its tanks, are complete garbage... AGAIN JMO

 

[Codeman]

Read some reviews, corals don't hold up too well under them.

 

[stingythingy45]

Personally,I think the Marineland MaxiJet Pumps are well worth the $$$.
And the Pro series they just came out with looks promising as well.
Not sure about the LED set up.

 

[Ffej]

I had a 24" fixture over my 26, and switched back to a T5 fixture which I augmented with LED moonlights.

 

[MeanFishBoston]

I ended up getting this light today : DB Solarxtreme T5 HO Quad Lamp System 24


24" SolarXtreme T5HO Quad Lamp System Features: XTREME CONTROL - Integrated digital timer allows users to program individual channels for full cycled use. Large led control display is easy to read, program & activate lamp channels. XTREME DESIGN - Crafted from pure aluminum for xtreme thermal conductivity & heat dissipation. An ultra efficient blower draws cool air through system expelling heat via special cooling vents on each end. Added cooling keeps system operating temps minimal & prevents heat transfer down into aquaria. Sleek & low profile design with special black electro-coat finish to protect surface against contaminates ensuring easy cleanup. XTREME FLEXIBILITY - *ADJUSTABLE MOUNTING LEGS (included) - Offers secure installation over an aquarium while retaining use & access of glass canopies. *ADJUSTABLE SUSPENSION KIT (included) - Ceiling & canopy installation through the use of suspending tabs. Completely adjustable tabs also fold down when not in use concealing them from view. XTREME PROTECTION - Internal protection circuitry monitors electrical system status disabling unit in the event of a fault. Features include self-check on startup, lamp fault detection, thermal load & open circuit protection. XTREME POWER - At the heart of the system is an industrial grade electronic ballast offering high efficiency & cool running operation. High quality capacitors & VRMs maintain optimal & stable power across each lamp channel ensuring safe reliable operation. XTREME ILLUMINATION - Strategically positioned moonlight leds specially tuned & integrated directly into reflector simulating natural night illumination for full day/night cycle. The reflector adopts a high polished light amplifying parabolic design increasing lumen output, depth penetration, & coverage. XTREME ACCESS - Compression fit glass lens assembly protects internal compartment against moisture & debris while preventing operating heat from traveling down into aquaria. Hinged glass lens allows easy access for quick lamp changes. Features tempered glass for strength & safety. Package Contains: SolarXtreme Light System, (2) 10KK Daylight Lamps, (2) Actinic-03 Lamps, Mounting Legs, Suspension Kit, GFCI Grounded Cord & User Guide. System Specs: 4x24W System, 120V / 60Hz, (4) Moonlight LEDS 24.01L x 10.20W x 2.75H

 

[jarrodsanborn]

these lights are capable of sustaining coral. notice i did not mention grow or make happy...... i have some palys that are living in almost no light. they are still Alive so the 10w incandescent bulb must be reef capable.

I think marineland is abusing the word reef capable here and many new people are going to have to upgrade very quick after purchase.

for the $160 the led rig costs you could get a great used light for it, or you could build your own. They really are not that hard, and many experienced people here could help you out.