Re: Help me choosing my T5 set up.
<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12838864#post12838864 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by pusanpa
tek fixture (6bulb) 234w + no VHO actinic
= 350 (fixture) +100 (6bulbs) + 58 (leg) = 498
tek retro (6bulb) 234w + no VHO actinic
= 300 (3 retro kits) + 100 (6bulbs) = 400
icecap 660 (4bulbs) 220-240w + VHO super actinic 190w
= 80 (used 660 ballast) + 80 (icecap slr reflector) +80 (bulbs) +90 (diy parts)
= 350 + VHO 95w for super actinic 110 = 460
Which way would you go and why?
I am leaning toward third choice.
Thanks,
Joe
Are you sticking it in a canopy? If so then do not go with a fixture go with a retro.
Also what size tank? I would stick as many bulbs over the tank as you can, so go the way of a 6 bulb if you can fit it. If you can fit 8, go with 8.
I wouldn't overdrive the bulbs, replacing bulbs more often isn't something I would want to do. From what I read normal driven bulbs should be replaced around 9 months and 12 max. I would imagine that the over driven would have to be replaced even sooner then that. Just my opinion though.
Tek makes a good fixture, I have two and am happy with both. Aquatinics has a nice fixture and I really like the ATI's as well.
As far as bulbs I would go with a mix of brands, not just one.
As far as adding the VHO, the actinics in the T5's aren't nearly what they are in the VHO. So if you have to have that look, then add them. Also keep in mind that many of the bluer T5 bulbs have a very high PAR reading. So don't assume that sticking all 6500k bulbs in a fixture is goign to yield you the best results.
I would pick bulb combos based on the best possible coloration of your corals. Pick a few from every spectrum, the par will be there.