Should I build a DIY LED fixture or buy a set of used AI SOL Blue`s

I really liked my AI's---wish I would have just stuck them in a closet for use at a later date rather then selling them!
I will have another SW tank! Can kind of be a pain in the butt at times, but you really miss it when it's gone!

 

Stevesleds.com has great kits and they are controllable

 

I agree with Big John on both fronts. I probably should have kept my AI's, and I too find myself missing my reef. If/when I set up another tank, I'll do it differently though. That's the good part of getting rid of stuff. I'll start out right and not keep upgrading stuff. AI is starting out right.

 

The answer is clear either way you cut it. Go DIY. scenario 1: you have ALOT of space together and you're going to have to solder 184 leds.....WAY cheaper to go DIY. scenario 2: you have a smaller project and can neatly dress up/customize an led project for a little cheaper than buying a prebuilt fixture. End of story. Especially with those new makers LED extruded heatsinks, should be able to make something real nice.

Yah not to mentino you can add, reds, royal blues, regular blues, cool whites, hot whites, and uv leds (uv is SICK ! looks like a black light!)

 

DIY all the way. I would suggest using the MakersLED Heatsinks. They are bad arss Heat sinks and very customized and complete with Fan and hardware. I just finished my Son's 12gal BioCube tank light and I am so very happy. I am postingLe a update to my thread as I am typing this.

Let me know if you order DIY. I would like to order a few other colors.

Good luck!

 

Well, I got the AIs and put them over my tank when I set it up. I didn't really want to dive in and DIY LEDs out of the gate my first time out with a large tank. It probably depends on your personality, your tank size, etc. I spent over $1200 to get 3 AIs and a controller, but I figured it was a long-term investment and I'd have a solid foundation for my 180. I could have build LEDs for a lot less, but I was risk averse. Next time around, maybe not.

I did DIY my auto top off delivery system.

The AIs are pretty great.