Any advice

[geoff72]

One of my ballasts just went out in the 4X65w PC fixture so I am looking for a new fixture. I found two that I like but I am debating on which one to get. These are T5's 1 6X54 for $279 or 4X54 for $159. That is a big difference in price. From what I understand, T5's are better than PC's so the 4x54 is just as good as my 4x65 or better. My tank is a 55g, 48in long.
Any advice.

 

[Nanook]

I'd go for the 6 bulb...costs more, but gives more flexibility and light.

 

[latazyo]

where are you shopping for your lights, geoff?

I am also in need of some lights

 

[geoff72]

This is where I was looking.

http://www.northcoastmarines.com/lighting_systems_fluor.htm

 

[Fade]

To get the fulll out put you need individul reflectors I would go with this .

http://www.reefgeek.com/products/categories/lighting/104193.html

 

[JxMetal]

Get the 4 bulb, no reason you need 6 bulbs over a tank that's only 12 inches wide.

 

[Nanook]

I disagree....mainly to be disagreable!

dave:lol:

 

[JxMetal]

:lol: sounds good.

 

[chadfarmer]

the differnece between the 6 bulb and the 4 bulb would be for more equal light over the tank (also remember and look into the future if you are going with a bigger tank or not)


if it was me i would look into the 4 bulb tek retro or light fixture (twice as bright as the finix fixture -- and will blow away a PC light fixture)

or just buy a new ballast

the difference between the single reflector and the individual reflector is like clowdy and sunny day to the eyes


dont buy a acitinic bulb (look into a mixture of blue+ (11000K and actinic+ (20000K) bulbs and buy a few more to make the tank how you what it, you can customize the light more blue or more white

 

[fkdenton]

I got the 4 bulb tek fixture from reefgeek and it has been great. I dont have acros but I have a rbta and several assorted sps and they are doing great.

 

[geoff72]

The tek5 sounds really good but the problem I have with it is it looks like it is made to be hung. I do not want my light hanging from the ceiling. At least not were it is right now. The braces for it are $57 and for braces that is crazy. I also do not a have a hood right now for the retro.

 

[latazyo]

is 216w (4x54) going to be enough for your tank?

 

[geoff72]

Thats what I was thinking. I think I am going to go with the 6 bulb. I know most people think I should go with indivudual reflectors but the tek is a lot more expensive. Plus the Finnex comes with the bulbs!

 

[latazyo]

be sure to let us know how the company is when you order your lights, Ive never heard of this company and am interested in ordering lights, so be sure to leave us some feedback on the quality and customer service, etc

my tank is smaller, but I still need lights!

 

[geoff72]

Will do.