This review dives into the Finnex Stingray 2.0 LED aquarium light, examining its performance and suitability for various aquarium setups. Initial impressions highlight its robust build quality and sleek design, exceeding expectations in terms of aesthetics and durability. The light features a three-way switch offering a full-spectrum mode, an all-blue ambiance setting, and a complete off function, providing flexibility for different viewing preferences and coral needs.The review meticulously explores the intensity of the light, particularly the powerful full-spectrum mode which, while initially overwhelming, proved adjustable through experimentation. PAR meter readings are included to objectively assess light intensity and its impact on coral health. The author details their process of balancing the Stingray 2.0 with other lighting systems to achieve the optimal PAR levels and aesthetic appeal for their specific corals, ultimately concluding on its effectiveness as a supplemental light source rather than a standalone solution for all setups.
Pros And Cons
- Provides a good blue backdrop.
- Achieves desired PAR levels at 35% blue and 5% white.
- Blue is duller than the original Finix light.
- Corals thrived with this light.
- Provides a more subtle, desirable blue light.
- Worked out of the box, no settings needed.
- Too bright on the white setting; shows too much detail of rocks.
- All blue setting is too dim.
Read more: Top 5 NICREW Aquarium Lights
Unboxing and Initial Impressions
The Finnex Stingray 2.0 arrived, and my first impression was positive. The packaging was sturdy and well-designed, protecting the light during shipping.
Upon opening, the build quality felt solid and robust, exceeding my expectations. The light itself was sleek and modern, aesthetically pleasing for any aquarium setup.
I immediately compared it to my previous marine plus lights and the original Finnex light I already owned. The Stingray seemed promising.
Lighting Modes and Functionality
The Stingray 2.0 boasts a three-way switch. The first setting activates all blue LEDs, offering a stunning deep blue ambiance.
The middle position turns off all LEDs, providing a convenient off function. The third setting is remarkably bright, showcasing a mix of white, red, and blue LEDs.
I found the all-blue setting particularly effective for nighttime viewing, while the full-spectrum setting is ideal for daytime.
Brightness and Color Comparison
The full-spectrum setting, while bright, was initially overwhelming. It revealed too much detail of the rocks, and I found it less aesthetically pleasing than I anticipated.
In contrast, the all-blue mode was beautifully subtle, but lacked the vibrancy of my previous setup with the original Finnex light. The blue intensity differed significantly.
I experimented by adding the original Finnex light, creating a layered approach to achieve the desired blue tones and brightness.
PAR Meter Readings and Coral Growth
I utilized a PAR meter to objectively measure light intensity. With the Finnex Stingray 2.0 alone, the PAR readings were surprisingly high, potentially exceeding the ideal range for my corals.
By incorporating my other lights and adjusting settings, I achieved a more balanced PAR level, optimal for fostering coral growth. The original Finnex produced a better PAR reading at a lower intensity for my blue light needs
The balance between white and blue light was crucial; too much white resulted in a harsh, overexposed look that I wasn't happy with.
Final Verdict and Recommendations
The Finnex Stingray 2.0 offers impressive brightness and a visually appealing design. However, the intensity, especially in full-spectrum mode, might be too much for some setups.
For optimal results, experiment with lighting modes and potentially incorporate other lights, as I did with the original Finnex, to achieve the desired ambiance and PAR levels for your specific corals.
Ultimately, the Finnex Stingray 2.0's value depends on your individual tank and coral needs. It excels as a supplemental light source but might be too strong on its own for sensitive corals. I will be returning the additional Stingrays I purchased.