Newbie Lighting Question

[Doc_Polit]

I am just in the planning stages for my 120 gallon (48"x24"x24") reef tank.

I am looking to keep reef safe specimens as well as softies and LPS.

I have a chance to get a 4' fixture for a great price. Would a dual 250 watt MH (10 k) and dual T5's (actinic) be sufficient lighting for this tank?

Any idea how high I should keep the light elevated from the top of the tank? It is euro-braced so there is no center brace to worry about.

Thanks for your input. :wave:

 

[sirreal63]

Some fixtures are better than others, but with your stocking plans even the worst one will provide more than enough light. Which one are you looking at?

 

[Doc_Polit]

Apparently, the fixture is a Degenbao. I cannot find much info on Google.

The seller has not provided bulb info either, other than they are 1 month old.

 

[sirreal63]

I am already leery and haven't found anything on the fixture.

 

[Doc_Polit]

Yeah....

I am thinking I'll hold off for a deal on a better known brand.

 

[sirreal63]

Geisman or AquaMedic, hard to beat but not cheap, but with MH you do not want cheap.

 

[Doc_Polit]

Thanks Jack.

 

[Ron Reefman]

Call AquaMedic and ask about discontinued lights. Back at the end of November I got two light fixtures, 2 ea 250w MH with 2ea t5 and 2 new ballasts for each light dirt cheap (I'd brag but I don't want to make anybody at AquaMedic mad). They don't make the light anymore, but my tank has never looked better. They have a set price, but they can be negotiated with if you know how.

 

[Doc_Polit]

Thanks for the tip Ron.

What about something like this:

Giesemann Reflexx 4 x 54 watt T5HO 48" fixture. Includes 1 month old JBJ Trinity bulbs, 460 nm, 420 nm, and 2 x 14K. Hanging kit included. $180

Reflexx T5
- electronic, flicker -free ballasts
- Stepless height adjustment (option)
- Anodized aluminium surface in matt silver
- Ultra-flat, high-strength aluminium housing
- Separate switching of two T-5 pairs
- CAD developed reflector for T-5 lamps
- Fully reflective light surface using high gloss reflectors
- Splash guard and UV-protection (HQ version)
- Translucent safety glass (Polycarbonate)
- Special colours on request
- Flexible mounting options
- Lateral cable outlet - top entry also available


Good light for my intended use?