Ai Hydra 26 Vs. Ai Primes

[Jenn]

I'm looking to move my reef from my 27 gallon cube to a 45 gallon bowfront. I have the first generation hydra over the cube now but because of the bar on the bowfront I will need 2 fixtures. Has anyone used the new hydra 26's or primes. Theres about a $200 price difference between the 2. Any suggestions?

 

[Kman]

I would stick with the hydra 26's as the prime is better on smaller tanks. I have seen the prime set up and running and on that size of tank I don't think you would get the growth you want. Especially if you go with or have SPS. I myself would not use the prime on a 45 gallon. Even if they worked if you end up getting a bigger tank down the road you don't have the expandability you need and would have to buy new lights. You are better off going more then you need now and turning the intensity down. The 26 are more now but long term they will be cheaper.