Clustered vs Spread LED layout

[rodasphoto]

What are the pros/cons of Clustered vs Spread LED layout? I see both layouts used in commercial layouts.

 

[chris s]

From my understanding the cluster acts more like a MH fixture. You get the highest PAR numbers right below the cluster and it tapers off as you move away from the center. The spread led's are like a T5 fixture. They have a more consistent PAR reading across the tank but you will need more led's to get the higher PAR numbers you see under a cluster.

 

[rodasphoto]

Will there be a problem with color blending in full spectrum build if the leds are not clustered?

 

[bycjoe]

Rodasphoto;852585 wrote: Will there be a problem with color blending in full spectrum build if the leds are not clustered?

How clustered are you talking about? I did 36 LEDs over 20", 2 rows of blue/white alternating and 1 row for others, I also did 12 60* optics and 24 80* optics to help spread some lights around and I don't see spotlighting in my test so far