A Tried-and-True Lighting Combination

[MarineDepot]

With an increasing number of hobbyists becoming disappointed with their LED lights, many have switched back to the tried-and-true combination of Metal Halides & T5 High Output"”which has often been revered as the best lighting you can buy for any reef aquarium.

[READ] Hamilton Technology Cebu Sun: A Tried-and-True Lighting Combination

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[rschroeter]

I'm very close to buying one of these. Its between this and the Giessmann Infinity - but at twice the price I'm thinking a USA made (and with great support) that the Cebu Sun is the way to go. I hear a lot of negative responses from support out of the Giessmann, probably for lack of local reps, or lack of good local reps.

 

[MarineDepot]

Hamilton Technology Cebu Sun

Hamilton Technology Cebu Sun

I'm very close to buying one of these. Its between this and the Giessmann Infinity - but at twice the price I'm thinking a USA made (and with great support) that the Cebu Sun is the way to go. I hear a lot of negative responses from support out of the Giessmann, probably for lack of local reps, or lack of good local reps.

They'll be on sale tomorrow till midnight Monday if you're planning on buying sooner than later. You can subscribe to our email newsletter if you'd like to be notified when the discount is available. Hamilton does offer excellent support"”we speak often and have a strong relationship.

 

[rschroeter]

Great, just subbed
Is there a big difference buying direct or not? Love your site and will continue to be a customer but just curious

 

[MarineDepot]

Cebu Sun Metal Halide, T5 High Output & LED Lighting System

Cebu Sun Metal Halide, T5 High Output & LED Lighting System

Great, just subbed
Is there a big difference buying direct or not? Love your site and will continue to be a customer but just curious

I honestly don't know if there are any incentives to buying directly, although we would love to earn your business again.

Here is the coupon for 10% off orders $99 & up: POTOFGOLD

It expires Monday at midnight.

 

[moondoggy4]

I have both products Giesemann and Hamilton I have not needed any C/S from Hamilton but they are local to me but Giesemann C/S is non existent.

 

[Brian Crook]

Considering I'm on the verge of dropping thousands on an LED lighting system for my new build, this original post makes me sad..

 

[MarineDepot]

Aquarium Lighting

Aquarium Lighting

Considering I'm on the verge of dropping thousands on an LED lighting system for my new build, this original post makes me sad..

Here's what one of our staffers recently wrote (2/20/14) about MH vs. LED:

"I have been in the hobby a long time. Yet it still amazes me how far aquarium lighting has advanced, especially in regards to LED light fixtures. I personally feel metal halide lights remain the best reef aquarium lighting option, although LEDs are getting awfully close! However, I can’t deny that running a metal halide light often costs more when you factor in how much energy they use and the fact you have to replace the bulbs every 12-18 months for optimal performance.

In warmer climates, excess heat from metal halide lights can cause tank temperatures to rise to dangerous levels. A fan or chiller is often necessary in these scenarios to keep aquarium water stable and within ranges safe for livestock. More equipment equals more money, not to mention the additional cost of running that equipment. Are you beginning to see the dollar signs add up?

The price of a mid to high-end LED aquarium light is probably going to cost more than a metal halide system. The benefits, however, cannot be ignored. LED lights run cooler, so you most likely won’t need a fan or chiller. The wattages are often less, so you’ll save money on your electric bill. You won’t have to replace the bulbs annually. Plus all the other perks, like infinite control options and color combinations. So look at it this way: investing in a nice LED aquarium light will eventually pay for itself."​

Among our own staff, you'll find hobbyists who prefer MH, T5 or LED (or a mix thereof). This is probably reflective of the hobby by and large. The energy (and bulb replacement) savings switching from MH to LED is substantial; some of our own team members are saving $50+ per month on their electricity bills.

There are worse problems than having too many great options to consider! :beer: