tek really worth it???

[shroutk3]

I'll start off by admitting that I'm a total cheap skate, and that I've been looking for new lights for my 40Br (currently using 180 watts PC). I've encountered a pretty big dilemma though, and am Looking for some advice.

Locally, I have found two 36 inch T5 fixtures. The first being the Current Sundial fixture which has built in timers, fan, and moonlights. The second is a 36 inch tek, and everyone knows what that comes with, pretty much reflectors, and fixture- no real extras.

Here are my concerns for each fixture:
Sundial- I wouldn't be able to fit individual reflectors in the fixture, so I'd have to rely on the factory ones, which are less than ideal.

tek- I would still have to use my jumble of plug in timers, would have to get separate moonlights, and may have to install a fan. Also, the mounting brackets/hanging kits are expensive.

Both of these fixtures are available to me at a screaming deal (the tek is like 50-60 bucks more than the sundial). Both include lamps with more that 6 months use on them, and I'd have to drive about 90 miles to pick either up. So, with the intent on keeping a clam, and sps on top of my current zoos, gsp, frogspawn, ricordeas, and bta's. Can I go wrong on either fixture??

I really can't decide, so I'm looking for some advice.

Thanks in advance,
Tim

 

[GSMguy]

is it worth 60 bucks extra? yes.

 

[jlemoine2]

I agree the tek is probably the better light of the two. Just be sure to install the fan(s) for the best performance.

 

[shroutk3]

to be clear then, I would have to worry about the tek heating the water, and would definately need a fan??

Has anyone ever tried to retrofit the sundial with better reflectors??

Tim