During Interzoo Giesemann announced a new line of Powerchome T5 bulbs that had current D-D/Giesemann Powerchrome T5 owners and distributors scratching their heads a bit. We received an official statement from D-D in the form of an FAQ we shared below. Back in 2002 D-D Aquarium Solutions developed the first five-point spectrum, blended phosphor T5 tube specifically for marine and reef aquariums. This was significant since there were only white and blue tubes available and the only way to blend colors was mixing these tubes together in various ratios.
This first special spectra was called ‘Aquablue’ with a 60:40 white to blue blend of phosphors and a five-point spectrum where most T5 tubes at that time only had a three-point spectrum not designed for use in the aquarium industry. According to D-D, in 2005 D-D and Giesemann reached an agreement for D-D to supply T5 tubes to Giesemann and allow Giesemann to add its name on the tubes.
With this news, it looks like this marriage may be heading down the path of divorce.
Q1 – I have read that there will be a new T5 tube introduced by Giesemann, does this mean that the existing T5 tubes that I have successfully used on my tank for many years will be no longer available?
A1 – No, the D-D tube that people know as the D-D / Giesemann Powerchrome will continue to be available for all existing and future markets through the same D-D distribution networks that they are currently supplied through.
Q2 – Are these the same bulbs?
A2 – The D-D joint branded T5 bulbs, which were first introduced in 2002 as the first blended phosphor, 5-point spectrum tubes in the hobby, have spectra that are unique and exclusive to the D-D brand and by agreement cannot be duplicated.
Q3 – Are the Giesemann own brand bulbs new and therefore better?
A3 – The D-D tube has always been at the leading edge of T5 development. Our tubes incorporate the very latest in phosphor technology for output, lifespan and color stability and also meet the latest in environmental standards. The tubes have been continually improved for over 12 years, but more importantly have a proven track record over that time on tens of thousands of aquariums.
Q4 – If they are not the same bulbs then why does Giesemann plan to launch a new brand?
A4 – Agreements set out when Giesemann added their name to our existing D-D tube range in 2005 have prevented them from distributing directly in certain countries, most notably the U.S. market. Giesemann has decided to generate revenue by changing this agreement through the introduction of a different product line. The success of this move will for them will depend on the quality and spectral output of the new bulbs and how the hobby, especially those who are unaware that it is in fact a different product, accepts them.
Q5 – What is new in development for the future?
A5 –Improvements and new spectra are continually being developed to enhance the comprehensive seven color range such as the latest lagoon blue tube, a stunning turquoise blue that simulates the color of shallow water over clean white sand.
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