Need help deciding on lighting........

[ZC]

Ok I need some help deciding on what lighting to go with bulbwise for my 46g BF........

Option A: XM10k 175w with 2-96w pc dual actinics
or
Option B: XM15K 175w with 2-96w pc 50\50's
or
OptionC: ??????? give me some other ideas

Right now im' running XM20k 175w with 1-96w dual daylight and 1-96 dual actinic, all my bulbs are almost 1yr old so its time to replace them ASAP.....Let me know what you think!

 

[ZC]

shameless bump before my thread goes to page 2 and never gets answered

 

[vishboy]

I would try to not use PCs. I jave them now, and they produce a lot of heat. You could use VHO for Actinics. If you like a more purpley color, then PC 03s are good, but the 7100k are more blue, I think.

 

[NewMariner]

I just got a Tek T5 fixture for my 46g bowfront as I didnt want to deal with just 1 mh and then have all that heat...

T5s light the tank beautifully...

 

[ZC]

I really haven't had any heat issues with my PC's or MH's I do run two 4" fans in my canopy though, but i never have my temp over 78deg.

I really like the t-5's but i've got SPS and i have heard mixed reviews about them and SPS corals that and I already have the stuff for the PC and MH systems, i don't want to have to spend more money for new lighting system.