How Good is This T5HO Light?

[gemini aquarius(t)]

Im trying to do some research, and it hit me that I dont know nearly enough about lighting to have a good opinion on a light

however, based on basic learning this seems like it might be a good set up for me..

please let me know if you have any experience or opinion
thanks in advance

http://www.marinedepot.com/ps_ViewI...gory=FILTFIT5T5

 

[GQuinn]

Link doesn't work.

Gary

 

[gemini aquarius(t)]

http://www.marinedepot.com/ps_ViewI...t_USA&idProduct=CU01083&idCategory=FILTFIT5T5

Current USA Nova Extreme Pro T5 HO Fixture 6x39 watt
Description
Main Features

Nova Extreme Pro

T5 high-output lighting fixture
Witness the next evolution in T5HO lighting

* Individually contoured reflectors for maximum light intensity
* Cool running, performance-driven electronic ballasts
* Fan-cooled for superior color spectrum, output and lifespan
* Independent controls for dawn/dusk applications
* Dimensions 20" x 12" x 4.25"

The Nova Extreme Pro combines the best in both design and functionality, making it a great addition to any aquarium. The sleek black-aluminum construction not only maintains a low profile on the aquarium, its design also allows it to dissipate heat away from the aquarium, lamps and components. Individual polished reflectors coupled with highly efficient electronic ballasts maximize the light output and intensity of the SlimPaq T5 HO lamps.

SlimPaq high output T5 lamps offer a quantum leap in lamp performance, with more than 50% higher output compared to an ordinary T5, T8 or T12 fluorescent systems, and longer lifespan. Using our proprietary blend of tri-phosphors, the high levels produce stunning color rendition and penetrating intensity. The Nova Extreme Pro includes a fan-cooled aluminum housing, independent controls for dawn/dusk applications, individually contoured reflectors for increased light output, splash lens and docking mounts.

 

[iFisch]

Sure is a good light.

 

[gemini aquarius(t)]

do you have it?

 

[iFisch]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15485797#post15485797 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by gemini aquarius(t)
do you have it?

I own the Current USA Nova Extreme (cheaper system).


Current makes quality products. I wouldn't hesitate to buy one if one would fit my tank. But none of them do, so I had to go with the smaller 20" 2x18w fixtures.

 

[gemini aquarius(t)]

Oh ok, what are you keeping in your tank? would you upgrade or does it give you a good amount of light?

 

[iFisch]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15485919#post15485919 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by gemini aquarius(t)
Oh ok, what are you keeping in your tank? would you upgrade or does it give you a good amount of light?

Not much now. I, unfortunately, had a passing in the family, and I'm out of work for 2 weeks.

I have a handful of exotic zoa's and Ric's, a multicolor torch (golden and baby blue) and a SPS Birdsnest.


I will be adding exotic Acan's, more exotic zoa's and Ric's.


I upgraded from the stock hood that was included with my tank, and now have these two fixtures over my tank. I could technically keep anything, but I'm not. I have enough light for SPS, LPS, clams, zoa's, etc.

 

[gemini aquarius(t)]

Oh im sorry to hear that!
well that sounds like a good light then

 

[gemini aquarius(t)]

oh and did you get new bulbs?

 

[iFisch]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15486083#post15486083 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by gemini aquarius(t)
oh and did you get new bulbs?

The fixture includes decent bulbs. I like the stock look, personally. It's a little bluer than 10k, but not quite 14k or 15k. More like a 12k look.

 

[gemini aquarius(t)]

Ok, i just heard that it makes the system better in general with new and different bulbs so i was just wondering

 

[iFisch]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15486129#post15486129 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by gemini aquarius(t)
Ok, i just heard that it makes the system better in general with new and different bulbs so i was just wondering

Well it does. If you are looking for a specific look. Since my bulbs are only 18", there's no choice in different color bulbs, since Current is the only maker/seller of 18" T5HO bulbs.


What size fixture are you looking at?

 

[gemini aquarius(t)]

ohhh got it.
im looking at a 36" fixture

 

[iFisch]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15486191#post15486191 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by gemini aquarius(t)
ohhh got it.
im looking at a 36" fixture

There's a HUGE amount of bulb choices out there for a 36" fixture. Pinks, Purples, different colored blues, etc.


There's this fixture, and you can choose your bulbs.

http://www.aquacave.com/tek-light-t-5-36-lightbr-fixture-4-x-39w-lampsbr-by-sunlight-supply-689.html



Here's the bulbs you can choose from if you want another fixture:

http://www.aquacave.com/T-5 Light Bulbs Catalog.aspx?CategoryID=128

 

[gemini aquarius(t)]

yea, there are aloottt of choices. i think i found out what im getting though from the t5 Q&A thread

 

[iFisch]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15486362#post15486362 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by gemini aquarius(t)
i think i found out what im getting though from the t5 Q&A thread

AWESOME thread. It really comes down to which fixture you like most. At this price, they're all quality reflectors. You're paying for features and looks.

The quality in the reflector of the Current and a Tek will be minimal.


If you can afford it, go with an ATI Powermodule.

http://www.reefgeek.com/lighting/T5...39W_Powermodule_T5_High-Output_Fixture_by_ATI


The best one out there, from my reading. And ATI/Giesemann are the best.

On Marinedepot, they have the Giesemann is $320, includes bulbs. For $70 more, you can get the legs, and not have to suspend it from your ceiling.

But the Current is a quality unit, nonetheless.

 

[gemini aquarius(t)]

Thats a little out of my price range.

 

[Chipie]

I have the 36 inches Nova extreme Pro. My tank is full of SPS which are doing very well. For the price, this is an excellent light. I also used the stock bulbs for the first 6 months and my sps didn't seem to mind at all

 

[gemini aquarius(t)]

Oh thank you much for your input.. want to post a pic of your tank?