Aquactinics Metal Halide/ T5 combo?

[thecichlidpleco]

http://www.aquariumspecialty.com/catalog/product_info.php?cPath=28_111_113&products_id=589

Has anyone used this, I am interested in one that has the 250 watt bulbs, is it a good fixture to buy?

 

[eddie c]

it's a nice unit i have the 175w version, i upgraded to the icecap ballast, be sure to get the legs for it.

 

[thecichlidpleco]

Did you upgrade the ballast right away or wait, if you waited, did it still perform well, I really only want this for a frag tank.

 

[eddie c]

i ordered it with the upgrade, with the electronic ballast you have more bulb options and also ordered the iwasaki 15k bulb and with an electronic it performs much better.

 

[aninjaatemyshoe]

I don't know about this fixture. It looks poorly designed from the picture. It looks like it doesn't have individual reflectors for the T5 bulbs and the back reflector for the MH bulb doesn't look like it would give good spread/efficiency. I'm rather supprised this is an Aquactinic fixture, doesn't look like it's in the same league as their sole T5 fixture.

 

[thecichlidpleco]

anymore input from anyone? and the icecap 250W is about $130?

 

[thecichlidpleco]

aquatictech.com has HQI 250 watt ballast (will run any 250 watt bulb)
available in 120 (or 220 volt version for an additional $15.00)
SALE $114.95
good deal? and should I upgrade to the 220 volt?

 

[aninjaatemyshoe]

220 Volt is the standard used in many places outside the US (such as Europe) and only will work with their power supply. 120Volt is what we use here in the US, so if you intend for the fixture to work here without having to buy expensive adapters I would say that you should buy the 120V. For a ballast price that is ok, depending on what kinda ballast it is. I've seen better deals though. The icecap 250W is a great ballast and probably better than the one at aquatictech.