In the past we have told you about the super cool Aquapad range of LED lights. Not only do these light combine the sleek lines of German engineering but they are literally cool to the touch even after a hard days work illuminating a reef. Previously we have lamented the fact these lights are only available in Europe- but that has all changed with the recent collaboration between the designers AquaLeds.De and the US based company HighDefCorals. The first US production model has been shipped, tested and found to be as fabulous over here as it was over there.
For those unfamiliar with the AquaPad design, imagine simply an LED light as thin as the glass on most tanks that appears to float effortlessly over the water surface. At just over half inch thickness these really have to be one of the thinnest lights on the market. They are also incredibly cool to the touch. After 10 hours of being lit, the upper surface feels barely warmer than room temperature. This is due to the entire light appearing to be a massive single milled block of aluminum.
The Aquapad 125, which will be displayed in all its glory at NextWave has 10 LED panels, each comprising 12 single watt LEDs, with 120° optics for total illumination. While 120W LED seems a little on the shy side, we have to confess, its bright. The controller is simple to use and set, with various lighting configurations available. The unit comes complete with a nice hanging kit -which is recommended considering the overall weight of the unit. Also supplied are power supply and dimming unit.
HighDefCorals are currently running coral growth tests under the Aquapad and the results, so far have been good- both in terms of color and growth. Unfortunately, as these units are being made for the metric-centric European market, they are slightly out with the feet and inches used in the US. This is, however, only an issue for those seeking an out-of-the box lighting solution. As part of their range AquaLeds are able to custom build an AquaPad to your personal tank dimensions, be that a bow front, a hex, corner unit etc, making these lights infinitely customizable. While the final costs of these units are being worked out, it is expected that an Aquapad 125 will run at around $1,900.
Orders are now being taken for the first shipment of units from Germany- so if you want to be the coolest kid on the block and sport the sleek Aquapad over your tank, contact the guys at HighDefCorals for details ([email protected]).
