Maxspect is shedding a little more info on the wide angle reflector option for the R420R (or “Razor” as it’s commonly known) series of LED fixtures. The new reflector modules will be standard on the upcoming 43.5″ long 300W model that was shown at MACNA last year, but will be offered as an upgrade to current Nano, 20.5″, and 27″ long versions.
The new optic will be molded with an octagonal shape for each LED, and then coated with a nano-tech paint. It’s quite likely that this ‘nano-tech’ paint is similar to coatings that are used in integrating spheres (used for measuring light qualities), where you need high reflectance, high diffusion, and is not selective about the wavelength of light that it reflects. If that’s the case, then this optic should offer high efficiency, and great color blending.
The distribution angle is increasing to 120 degrees, which is a little more than what was mentioned at MACNA (originally 100 degrees), and much greater than the stock 90 degrees on current models. So why make this optic with the same distribution angle as the primary optic on the LED itself? Really, it’s going to be down to the diffusing properties of the nano-tech paint which will result in much smoother and better blended light in the tank.
To those worried about what will happen to the LEDs now that the protective lenses have been removed, fear not. The new modules will have a thin acrylic sheet over the top to stop salt spray and splashes damaging the LEDs. The new reflector should start to ship in about two weeks with a price of $14.99. [Maxspect]
EDIT: Maxspect contacted us to inform you that all R420R models will ship with 90 degree TIR lenses (including the upcoming 300W model), and the wide angle reflectors will be an option.
