[Tex Gal]

Aaron - I've thought about all of this and I am nervous about it. I really need to see if these lights are SO powerful that I won't need all the available "juice" the blues would throw (if a different color). I don't know how else to find out but to test it. Since I am able to try them and hopefully have no loss (if I act quickly) I want to at least SEE what they look like and how my plants react for about a week. This draws me because of the PROS I previously listed. I wish planted tanks were not the ugly step-child of the aquarium trade. I wish EcoTech would allow a customized choice of which LED's could be included in their fixture. I doubt they would care, but then I don't know what is involved in the assembly of each LED module. Wonder if they would entertain a call from a nobody like me?

I appreciate the discussion here. It's a lot of $$ to take a chance on. Some who have studied LEDs tell me I am going to be elated. Others share my same doubts and fears. You guys, as my friends, feel free to give advice. There is a wealth of knowledge on this forum. That's why I posted here. I also hate "wasting" the blue LEDs in adjustment, but then I think of replacing T5HO bulbs routinely and think that is quite a huge waste as well, not to mention the greater efficiency of LED and energy cost, etc. I'm not sure which side has more waste. If both fixtures grow my plants just as well and I end up with a slimmer, trimmer, more efficient light and I don't' have to change bulbs for years, I will be happy.

DIY is great, IF you can do it. SINCE I can't, that really isn't an option for me.