T5 reflectors?

[Twisted]

So started looking into useing the T5 set up for growing SPS, and maybe a clam.

Currently I and running a 55 gallon standard 4 foot aqaurium full of softies, mainly shrooms. And was told a 6X54w T5 with individual reflectors would be awesome for growing SPS.

Well talking to a LFS he said he hates his T5's and would sell me his fixture cheap. but it is an 8X54w fixture with a single reflector. Will this still work for growing SPS or does it HAVE to have the individual reflectors, and if so can I get the indiviual reflectors somewhere else?
He says he thinks the brand is Current, and I saw all the bulbs had Current on them so I assume the fixture came with all the bulbs, and the brand would match.

 

[dwdenny]

well the single reflector is probably why he hates it. Depends on what type of fixture it is. I have read here that some people are putting in individual reflectors and getting good results. Another thing to look at is the lamps themselves. Make sure they are the good ones like ATI, URI, etc. Depends on cheap is cheap. Did he give you a price? I think I would still go with a TEK fixture or if you have a canopy then retro with Icecap reflectors. HTH

 

[Ti]

u need individual.

 

[dc_909]

I have the IceCap single reflectors and I can tell you they are bright. I had the chance to see a single reflector on 6 bulbs and there is no comparison to the single reflectors.

 

[Twisted]

He said this is a Current light which is who makes Orbits I think. He told me I vould have it for $250. But I can't seem to find a replacment reflector that makes it individual.
I found reflectors that clamp onto the bulbs themselves, but the reflectors are $27 bucks a piece, so that would add another $216 to the price.

I found a 6X54w tek with individual reflectors on Ebay for $300, so thinking the ebay one is the better directions. Waiting to see if I get this 48 inch 120 gallon before I buy it.

 

[dc_909]

ReefGeek has 4x54w w/Icecap reflectors and bulbs for $330.

 

[Twisted]

I figured I want atleast the 6X54w to keep SPS don't I? And like I said the 6X54w Tek is on ebay for $295