The Kessil A500X LED light delivers a significant upgrade in power and versatility for reef aquarium enthusiasts. This compact powerhouse boasts double the output of its predecessor, the A360X, providing intense illumination ideal for demanding SPS corals. Despite its increased 185-watt power draw, the A500X maintains a remarkably small footprint, making it suitable for a variety of tank sizes and mounting configurations. Its compatibility with existing Kessil mounting systems ensures seamless integration into any reef setup.Achieving impressive light penetration is easily managed through the included 55-degree reflector or the optional 35-degree reflector for deeper tanks. The A500X utilizes the familiar Kessil Logic system, offering precise control via the Kessil app or Spectral Controller X. This allows for customizable light schedules and fine-tuning of individual color channels for optimal coral growth and vibrant coloration, delivering a blue-heavy spectrum similar to popular ATI Blue Plus T5 bulbs. The A500X represents a powerful, flexible, and compact solution for serious reef keepers.
Pros And Cons
- Doubles the output of the A360x while maintaining the same size.
- Same awesome spectrum, color blending, shimmer, and spread as the A360x.
- Compatible with the same mounting options as the A360x.
- Includes a 55-degree reflector.
- Available with a new 35-degree reflector for deeper tank penetration.
- Compact size (5.2-inch diameter, 3.7-inch thickness).
- Offers separate control channels for red, green, and violet LEDs via app.
- App allows for custom light schedules, moonlight, and acclimation modes.
- Can be controlled with a separate WiFi dongle or Spectral Controller X (no WiFi required).
- WiFi capability not built-in (requires separate dongle).
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Double the Power, Same Compact Size
The Kessil A500X boasts double the output of its predecessor, the A360X, while maintaining the same compact form factor. This is achieved by doubling the diodes in the dense matrix array, without changing the size of the array or the optic. This results in significantly increased light intensity for demanding SPS corals, all within a footprint that won't overwhelm smaller tanks.
The impressive light intensity is due to its 185-watt draw. The fixture remains remarkably compact, measuring just 5.2 inches in diameter and 3.7 inches thick. This makes it ideal for a variety of tank sizes and mounting configurations, even with its increased power.
Versatile Mounting and Reflector Options
The A500X maintains compatibility with the existing Kessil mounting systems, including the popular A-series mounting arm, allowing for clean cable management and flexible positioning. This ensures adaptable placement for various tank setups and hood configurations.
A 55-degree reflector is included for increased penetration in deeper tanks or higher mounting positions. However, Kessil also offers a 35-degree reflector, further enhancing the light's ability to penetrate the water column even in tanks up to four feet deep. This makes it suitable for a wider array of tank sizes and setups.
Control and Spectrum
The A500X uses the same Kessil Logic system as the A360X, allowing for control via the Kessil app (with a separate Wi-Fi dongle) or the Spectral Controller X. The app provides precise control over individual color channels (red, green, violet), enabling customization of light schedules, including moonlight and acclimation modes.
The spectrum is a wide-band blue-heavy profile, similar to the popular ATI Blue Plus T5 bulbs, offering both healthy coral growth and vibrant coloration. The separate color channel control allows fine-tuning to perfectly match your reef's needs.
Conclusion: A Powerful and Versatile Choice
The Kessil A500X is a high-performance LED light designed for serious reef keepers. Its powerful output, coupled with its compact size and versatile mounting options, makes it a strong contender for a wide range of reef tanks. The ability to adjust penetration with various reflectors is a real advantage.
While the separate Wi-Fi dongle is a consideration, the ability to control multiple fixtures with one dongle offers a cost-effective solution for larger setups. Overall, the A500X delivers on its promise of increased power and flexibility, making it a compelling choice for those seeking top-tier SPS coral lighting.