best fixture/retro

[revclyburn]

Hello

what companyh would you say has the best T5 fixture. I'm finding it a little hard to decide on what 4x54 T5 fixture/retro I want. Looking currently at the Aquamedic Oceanlight 4x54. But I don't know if that has individual reflectors. They also make the Sunbeam, but I don't think that comes in a 4 bulb fixture, but it does have the reflector. Then there's Tek, Maristar, Coralife, and the list goes on. Anyone have a opinion on any of these?

edwin

 

[pjf]

I don't have an opinion except to make sure your fixture has individual reflectors and at least two independent on/off switches. You named a lot of brands but left out Aquatinics which is available here:

http://www.aquariumspecialty.com/catalog/index.php?cPath=28_111

 

[revclyburn]

I checked them out, didn't see a 4x54 though. Plus I'm trying not to spend 300 plus on lights. I don't think they come with bulbs either.

edwin

 

[BLockamon]

The cheapest you're going to get for anything worth having is a 4-bulb Tek retrofit kit ($309 shipped). You will have to have a fan an vent holes in the canopy for best results.

I went with the 5x54W Aquactinics fixture (~$400 w/ bulbs) and am very happy with it. The Fauna Marin fixtures/retros at www.aquariumobsessed.com are also very nice, but they run a little bit more for 1 less bulb.

 

[pjf]

It seems that the finished fixtures are very reasonable priced at Reef Geek. Here is a 48" 4x54w Tek Light for $239 (no bulbs):

http://www.reefgeek.com/lighting/T5...T5_HO_Fluorescents_(Black)_by_Sunlight_Supply

 

[revclyburn]

That may be the way I go,

I could always get bulbs later, but that defeats the purpose. I see they have a retro, 2 bulb, that I could use for starters. Set it up on my tank and see how it looks. It comes with bulbs and reflectors.

edwin

 

[pjf]

Inexpensive Retro

Inexpensive Retro

Here is a $209.95 T5 Tek Retro Kit 48in- 4 x 54w:

http://diyreef.com/shop/product_info.php?cPath=89&products_id=355

 

[revclyburn]

Thanks Pjf,

edwin