Lighting for a Newbie

[TheBadGuy]

Ok folks, I finally took the plunge this past weekend and built a canopy for my 72x18" 125 gallon tank. It turned out better than I thought it would.

The purpose was to accommodate a new form of lighting. Right now I have a standard hood with two fluorescents. I would like to be able to maintain anemones and maybe a few hardy corals and do so within a budget.

What lighting would you recommend I check out that I could mount inside my canopy (14" high) that would allow me to house the above mentioned and not bring me to my knees when it comes to cost? Any links would be appreciated as well Thanks

 

[bassnman11]

Check out some of the threads on T5ho. They are little more expensive but perform like halides with the advantage of cheaper to run and less heat.

 

[James77]

what kind of budget are you working with?

 

[TheBadGuy]

I am looking in the $400-$700 range. I don't want to have to wire or rig anything. I am hoping for a "plug & play" style set up here.

I spoke to the wife and my budget increased to the above as I don't want to upgrade and then still be restriced on lifestock due to lack of proper lighting.

Can it be done in that price range? Spending more make me cry

 

[120reeferman]

well since your trying to get into this hobby get use to cying, cause your goin to spend alot of money...lol