Lighting, pc/T5's......Nova fixture

[G13]

I was wondering what type of lighting is better. I currently use 96W of pc over my 10 gallon tank but have been looking at some T5 fixtures.

I've seen one T5 fixture with 56W of Standard Output bulbs for $99. It states that it's stays cool and makes NO noise or vibrations. I noticed there is no cooling fan so that would be the reason for no noise. The mounting legs are also adjustable so they'll fit my the length of my 10 gallon tank (20").

http://www.cadlights.com/product_info.php?cPath=25&products_id=68

I've also seen the NOVA fixture at the Drs website with 96W of High Output bulbs w/2 lunar lights and the dusk/dawn effect. This Nova fixture does come with a cooling fan.

http://www.drsfostersmith.com/Product/Prod_Display.cfm?pcatid=12772&N=2004+113175

Has anyone had any experience with either of these fixtures? I have a few questions for the people that use Nova fixtures. Is the fan quiet? Are the legs adjustable to fit my 10 gallon tank that is 20"? Can I keep a clam or sps with the T5 lighting?

Are T5's that much better then pc's?

 

[Happan]

I'm picking up a Nova this week, should have it no later then Wednesday. I'm getting the 24" one and what it looks like the mounting legs are adjustable. One of the biggest reasons I'm going with the Nova is the price. I can't afford a TEK, but that doesn't mean I don't like em

I haven't heard it run as of yet, but from what a couple people have told me, it is fairly quiet.

I know some people are not too happy with the reflector on them, but to be honest, I would think in a 10g tank, that wouldn't be that big of an issue.

I plan on keeping 1 maybe 2 SPS's with the Nova in my 26g tank, as far as clams go...not really sure. If you like, I can post here again after Tuesday and let you know how it goes for me.

 

[G13]

Ok, cool. Your input on the fan and fixture as a whole would be appreciated.

 

[fishes2889]

I have a 33g tank with a 48inch nova. works great....
The fan is a bit loud but my ears are geating atune to it but i would pick the nova from the standard output......

Steve

 

[Happan]

Like Steve said, there is a little humming from the fan, but not too bad really. The brackets are adjustable and overall, I am happy with the lights.

 

[fishfanatic06]

I would not buy the nova T5. It is cheaper for a reason. Instead of each bulb having its own individual reflector there is one big reflector for all the lights. The amount of reflection in a unit is one of the most important parts of a good T5 fixture. Your light output will be considerably worse with the Nova. I highly reccomend you get a tek. You will be much happier if you do.

 

[pledosophy]

I have the 36" fixture. love it.

 

[fishes2889]

fishfanatic06- its not like you cant replace the one reflector and get some individuals. It would cost a little more but hey i dont need them, i have a 13in high tank....

Steve

 

[accord86]

Is there enough room in the nova hood to put in Individual reflectors? I think the Icecap reflectors are about 3" wide.

 

[fishes2889]

I bet its possible.....

Steve

 

[fishfanatic06]

I think it is possible. I would definetley do it. It increases the lights put out by 300%! Call the company you are buying from and ask them if it is possible.