Crossroads

[Codiak]

So I'm at a crossroads with deciding on my next build and could use so feedback.

I've now got a couple XM-L's based on cut down Mags-D using ahorton's asphereics and taskled drivers, one with hallsw another with an apem peizo.
These are good solid lights with nice throw for silty water. The only issue I have is a the fat head of the Mag.

I also have a 6xXP-G R2 for high CRI testing.
This is a short head canister version without optics.
This thing puts out a LOT of flood light, but lacks any punch or through

I'm getting closer to understanding what my ideal light(s) need to be:

• Burn Time : 2 hours (Alllows for extended bottom time or 2 dives before battery swap)
• Throw: (focused Ahorton's is just right) want double the output
• Spill: needs to be selectable on or off
• Color: Hi CRI, though I'd prefer my neutral K but consistant color for the throw and flood is a must.
• Power: Canister and Handheld, battery type NA
• Light head diameter: 40mm max

I just haven't figured out how to get all the above with current LED tech though I have high hopes for a build based on this mcpcb from cutter http://www.cutter.com.au/proddetail.php?prod=cut1107
That is if they ever actually get them in stock! The "expecting inventory this month" message is a bit dated.
Seems to me two 40mm heads based on this led one with a Cute-3m-9.5 and the other with the Cute-3m-20 would come pretty close to my optimal.


So is it worth my time and money to test further with builds based on either of the following?
http://www.cutter.com.au/proddetail.php?prod=cut1107http://www.led-tech.de/en/High-Power-LEDs-Cree/CREE-Solutions/7-x-CREE-XP-G-R5-on-round-PCB-LT-1704_120_117.html
http://www.dealextreme.com/p/prime-100w-8000lm-led-emitter-metal-plate-pure-white-42806
[URL="http://www.cutter.com.au/proddetail.php?prod=cut1107"][URL="http://www.led-tech.de/en/High-Power-LEDs-Cree/CREE-Solutions/7-x-CREE-XP-G-R5-on-round-PCB-LT-1704_120_117.html"]

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[Packhorse]

If you like the Ahorton XML combo but want a smaller head then use a W200. Can be done either as a hand held or cut it down for use as a can light.

 

[Codiak]

If you like the Ahorton XML combo but want a smaller head then use a W200. Can be done either as a hand held or cut it down for use as a can light.

The fat head I'm referring to is the 52mm head on a 40mm body.

My latest build design caps the 40mm nicely... and I don't mind the 40mm tube in my big hand

As for the XM-L, it's still only 1/2 the minimum output I want of 2k lumens

 

[Packhorse]

Thats pretty cool.

2k lumen... means multiple LED's or a SST-90.
I'd choose the SST.

 

[Codiak]

Thats pretty cool.

Thanks. I got lazy on my POC for the cap and didn't bother with threading it instead opting for a bit a compression and JBWeld.

2k lumen... means multiple LED's or a SST-90.
I'd choose the SST.

When I wrote this post I was really irk'd at Cutter for the lack of inventory weighted against the cost of doing yet another less then perfect build with the 7xXPG.
I broke down and ordered the 7x last night... with shipping, 3 cheap optics and Euro conversion rate another 125$ US expense.... ARGH! There goes my XMas present.

Strangely I was cleaning out one of my old bins and found an SST-90. So now I've got 2 new builds in mind...
Funny though, I don't seem to care for the beam of the SST-90 + Ahortons... so need to order some reflectors or other optics.... looking for recommendations.

 

[Packhorse]

I think the SST-90 and aspheric is OK if you use a large enough aspheric. The Ahorton isnt idea for this as the beam ends up too wide. The DX44mm is better and fits nicely in a mag head.

The best reflector I have used for a SST-90 is the W300. Its a deep mirror finished one and gives a great beam for the size. I currently use one as my spare can light.