So what really is better? lighting question

[Serdiss]

Hey guys,
i have been in the hobby for quite some time now, and have up to now always used metal halides on my aquaria. Now, with my new 5ft, I am looking at three different lights, but I can't get my head around which one to pick.
It will either be:

- 8x80 HO t5s, which are 150cm long (site below)
http://www.guppysaquariumproducts.c...500-long-individual-reflectors/prod_1005.html

- 150cm long 2x 250mh + 4x54watt t5s + two leds (site below)
http://www.guppysaquariumproducts.c...al-halide-1250-long-with-10000k/prod_264.html

OR

- 2 Lumenarc bright mini reflectors with 2x 250 or 400 watt MH

Which one should I pick? they all have their positives and negatives.

 

[mike_cmu04]

What kind of corals do you plan on keeping? Also how deep is your tank?

 

[Serdiss]

Well a mix really, but mostly sps. The tank is 24inches deep, so it's pretty shallow

 

[Serdiss]

Anyone?

 

[Serdiss]

Oh, I forgot to mention that they are all in the same price range

 

[OwenInAZ]

I'd go with MH, but I am partial to the shimmer. For heat considerations, T5 is the way to go.

The ultimate question is, which look do you like better?

 

[Serdiss]

Well I personally think the t5s give a cleaner look, without the shimmer effect. They also produce a higher wattage than the MHs I would be using. I do though really like the looks of the MH, the shimmer effect, and the partially shaded regions. For me the advantages and disadvantages for each just balance eachother out, making it harder to choose, especially with those kind of prices; I just don't want any regrets

 

[OwenInAZ]

Assuming they're priced similarly, pick one and don't worry about it. Your corals will grow with either one, so pick the one that you like on a gut level and will enjoy looking at every day.

 

[Serdiss]

Thanks, i'll go with the t5s this time then

 

[Johnny C]

What are the full dimensions of the aquarium? If you choose to go T5 (which I personally would), I would suggest the Tek over the fixture you linked. Much better quality! JMO