Convict2161
Aquarium Advice Addict
So are you thinking of the Mr. Aqua 33.6 (24.8 x 17.7 x 17.7")? If so, I'd be a little apprehensive that the a single Ray 2 will color up any stems that usually color up with intense lighting. I have the 24" Ray 2 on my 26g Bow Front, and due the 18" distance from light to sub, I'm getting reduced PAR -- which places it around medium light. Don't get me wrong, in fact and single Ray 2 might be good for you since you're just starting out. The added distance will be easy on you in terms of algae or whatnot. But just keep in mind, you 'might' have to add a second Ray 2 down the road if you want high-light -- especially to get stems to color up other than greens.
Growth factor is definitely there, but the lack of my red hues coming out in my stems is somewhat bothering me. I'll be experimenting by adding two Ray2's side-by-side shortly to report my findings. I'll also be experimenting with phosphate and iron to see if it helps.
Here's my 26g I'm referring to:
However, the 16" Ray 2 on my 6g Rimless has only 11" distance from light to sub. Everything else is the same in terms of co2, ferts, etc... and I'm getting great coloring from stems like the Rotala Colorata, Ludwigia sp. Red, and the alternanthera reineckii (now removed).
Sweet tank Brian. So what are you thinking? 2 fixtures or a better one so I don't have to run 2 fixtures.