Pre-planning for upgrading the 8'er, some input on LEDs needed

[syncro]

Based on this LED Asthetics thread use a color ratio of:

4 NW : 7 RB : 1 CB

NW: Cree XP-G Neutral White
RB: Cree XP-E Royal Blue
CB: Cree XP-E Blue

Create tightly grouped clusters of LEDS with each cluster containing a LED from each color group. This should improve color blending - reduce color shadowing and the disco ball effect.

To me this sounds a lot like the AquaIlluminations Sol Blue (same Cree emitters too). The AI unit uses a ratio of 1 NW : 1 RB : 1CB but with each color dimmable you can create this recommended ratio. Given the large number of AI users I figure a good route is to DIY something similar and piggyback on the AI info. For example AI recommends 1 Sol Blue per 24" x 24" are up to depths of 36" so a starting point is 4 units for your 8 foot tank. There is a huge thread on Reef Central where you can find PAR measurements, suggested lighting cycles if you are willing to slog through it.... most of which would apply to a DIY using the same emitters. This is my plan anyways until I find a better resource for DIY led. I've just started a thread on nano-reef along these lines. This is all book knowledge only - no real experience yet.