RBTA/T5/Where to buy?

[dzeadow]

I guess I had several questions here and didn't know what to label the subject as! First off, I have a 45g cube which is 24x24x18 and currently I have a 4x24 t5 icecap retro kit w/ the individual reflectors. I was tossing the thought of getting a RBTA in the future but wasn't sure if I was ok w/ my current lighting or if I should add another 2x24 retro to my current setup? I know it'd be better if I did that, but if I could save on the cost it'd be nice not to. Also, where's the best place to buy one when I'm looking? I see on liveaquaria they have 3.5" for $99 right now, is this considered a good deal? TIA for any help.

 

[jlt23]

I have a RBTA in my 45G (36x20x14) with 4x39 T5 icecap retro and it looks like it is doing fine, but I've only had it for a week. I bought my RBTA from another reefer for $50 and was 3". In my opinion it should be fine. Good luck.

 

[Slakker]

I'd say it will likely be fine under those lights, however, you can always add those extra two if it seems to be doing poorly after a month or so.

I'd add them anyways, but I get kind of overboard with my lighting...hehe

 

[dzeadow]

Yeah, I figured it'd be good to have them, but adding another $140 retro makes me cringe a little.. but it'd be worth it in the long run. Thank god I left room in my diy hood to put 2 more in. Is there any combination of t5's that are better than another for nems? I have 2 blue+, 1 super actinic, 1 10kk right now, but I have a 6.5kk and a aqua blue on the way (grim reefer recommended these for a crisper white look vs blue I'm getting now and pink that I was getting with the aquasun).

 

[GSMguy]

that is two more t5s than you NEED for a rbta in that tank 4 is perfect.

 

[dzeadow]

that's good to hear! I'd rather not spend the money on another set.. they get pretty spendy!