Upgrading Current Lighting?

[cemyth]

I have been looking at T5 fixtures to replace my current AquaticLife fixture.

What does everyone think of the ATI 48” Dimmable SunPower T5 with Controller? All I have read seemed to be good. Love the idea of dimmable.

My tank dimensions are 60"L x 18"W x 20"H…Would it be better to go with the 6 bulb version or the 8? I am currently looking to keep LPS and softies but would like to possible expand into SPS in the future.

Would SPS be okay with a 6 bulb? Just wondering due to the price difference on the 6 bulb versus the 8 bulb, but will do what is best for my tank.

http://www.marinedepot.com/ATI_48_Inch_Dimmable_SunPower_T5_High_Output_Fixture_w_Controller_48_Inch_T5_Fluorescent_Light_Fixtures-ATI-UZ3313-FILTFIT58U-vi.html

 

[James77]

I have no experience with the dimmable ones, but ATI fixtures are the best.

 

[cemyth]

Any others?

What about 6 bulbs versus 8 bulbs with my tank dimensions? 60"L x 18"W x 20"H

 

[James77]

Oops, was on my phone missed the bulb question. 6 bulbs is enough for that tank. You could do the 80 watt ones to give full coverage side to side, but even the 48" would work just fine and you would not notice the 6" on either side. For just softies it could be quite a bit of light, but you can dim that down I imagine? or user lower PAR bulbs and add more actinic.

 

[cemyth]

Great…I think I will give it a try with the dimmable 48” ATI 6x54. Should give me a total of 324 watts.

Thanks for your help Jim.