My next pick besides the solar storm would be the black dog leds
This worries me about Black Dog: "proprietary Phyto-genesis Spectrum"
I don't see their spectrum nor ratio mentioned anywhere, and like California Lightworks, Black Dog is expensive for what appear to be LG/TopLED lights.
I feel like LEDs are maturing and becoming commoditized. I'm sure it's a challenge for those who've developed reputations, invested in earlier advancements, etc. But, the bottom line is that spectrum and ratio is no longer something that can be kept a secret. Companies like Fero, Grow Northern, Area 51, Hans, et. al., are evolving their spectrum and publishing it. GN and A51 go as far as to publish the actual LED part numbers.
It's becoming more like Open Source where the companies have to compete on more tangible attributes like quality of materials, service, warranty, proprietary modulating drivers, etc. When I see stuff like "proprietary spectrum" (or "blend" as CLW calls it), I see someone trying to maintain an edge through marketing. The allure of having something "secret" that will give you an edge. Fake secrecy (which doesn't exist, because anyone can uncover the spectrum and ratio after buying a light) coupled with inordinately high prices doesn't have a ring of truth to it (IMO). It looks like struggling to maintain a comfy position among increasing competition.
If you're not on a budget, I'd encourage you to support those who are leading innovation and publishing what they're asking you to feed your plants.
If you are on a budget, you can model a desirable spectrum through a custom Cidly Apollo. Hansbrick, Tang (and some with him) did it. It's discussed
here. (<<link) The Alibaba seller is mentioned in that thread as well as a few different leading spectrum/ratios.
I just ordered one for $149 with free shipping. That's a nice option to model a light's NPK equivalent (the spectrum you're going to "feed" the plant) before buying into better components, stronger light, longer warranties, better (higher paid) support. I'm modeling the GN's rebel module (I specified same spectrum, and half the number of bulbs because Cidly is 15 pieces while GN's rebel is 30). I anticipate getting the new GN when it's available. But, this let's me get a taste. And, I'll end up with a backup light.
My point is: Why support a company that doesn't let you model what they're asking you to feed your plants? The offensive part of that protectionism is that competitors can easily discover the spectrum and ratio. Consumers can too (with a bit of effort). So, it's not really a "secret." All it does is keep consumers ignorant. When there are companies out there setting a better example, why support those promoting "closed source" practices? Especially at those inflated prices?
TopLED does the fake "secret" thing too. But, their prices are bargain basement by comparison. It's hard to understand what they're trying to protect. It seems more innocent, like a practice they thought was "normal." Given the value of their lights (you get a lot of bulb for the money), fewer people are inclined to care?
But, these mega-expensive guys with "Blend-o-Matic(tm)" nonsense, I think they're going to be less relevant as time goes on. I mean, today consumers can buy a radio spectrometer for $40. It doesn't make sense to promulgate a high-priced "Secret Sauce(tm)" when anyone could measure each bulb and publish those details. I'd much rather support someone like Area-51 who says "here's the Cree part number."
Good luck. I'm sure those expensive models are good, and that people have good grows. (I can point you to 3 grow journals for A51's new all-white XGS light. Monster, lush, leafy plants.).
