TThe TLDR:
- Price = $720.00 on sale now available for purchase here
- Spectrum = 390 nm – 740 nm
- 6w mixed color dual chip LEDs
- 156 individual LEDs
- 6 distinct channels
- MeanWell Driver
- Sun and Moon 10,000% dimming technology
- Mounted via hanging kit, arms, or universal fixing bracket
The newest mainline fixture from Orphek, the Natura iCon, launched earlier this year. It has a litany of specs that make it an excellent LED in terms of performance. First, it’s a panel-style unit, which assists with spread over other models, which rely on close clusters of diodes. Like Orphek’s other products, it also features a broad spectrum compared to many competitors featuring the following LEDs.
- 390nm x 6
- 400nm x 13
- 415nm x 7
- 420nm x 13
- 430nm x 13
- 450mm x 18
- 460nm x 4
- 470 nm x 24
- 480nm x 20
- 590nm x 4
- 670nm x 2
- 740nm x 2
- 18k x 30
This chip selection helps to produce a well-rounded spectrum that reaches down to UVA with their 390 nm chips, captures nearly the entire width of blue wavelength emission, has a large “white” presence with the 30 18k chips, and includes spectral components seldom touched by competitors, such as the 590nm peak brought about by the inclusion of amber chips.
In the past, I have discussed many times why the inclusion of these spectral peaks is likely very important for coral growth and advantageous to an all-blue output. If you’re curious about those thoughts, read here and skip to the spectrum portion.
Combine this chip selection with the 6w dual mixed color diode design, and solid color mixing produces a very attractive light that, in person, reminds me of T5-LED hybrid fixtures.
This fixture also has Orpheks 10,000% dimming technology, which has also been extensively covered here in the past. These features allow for what they claim is the most accurate lunar mode and cycle on the market.
Physically, the unit is sleek and low profile in appearance, constructed from black acrylic and anti-rust anodized aluminum alloy. It has dimensions of 14.45″ x 7.95″ x 1.81″ (36.7 x 20.2 x 4.6 cm) and weighs 7.05 lbs (3.2 kg). While the fixture does look ultra modern with its aluminum exterior, I hope in the feature, Orphek can offer more designs encased in different colors of acrylic to allow for better color matching. An all-white or all-black natural would look fantastic and go a lot better aesthetically with white or black systems than the current space-age look of the light.
It comes with the following components in the box
- x1 fixture
- x1 MeanWell driver
- x1 power cord
- x1 waterproof connector
- x2 hanging components
- x4 screws
In terms of software, the app is responsive and easy to use – especially compared to most in the industry, which are tedious to use. The one point of criticism I have is that it is rather plain and has the same layout as many other smart home apps. While this does nothing to stop it from being functional, Orphek could likely improve the layout and design of its app in the future.
We just received several of the new Natura fixtures to play with at the studio. Expect a much more hands-on review soon. They will also be included in Reef Builders’ systemic LED review.
Technical Information
