What are other good t5 brands besides ati for sps?

[Piper27]

Nice thanks for the replies guys! So no difference between the two huh? I always thought there was a small performance increase in the powermodule, maybe it was the fans?
I know 8 bulbs will be enough to grow the corals well, I do believe that two extras would certainly help especially giving the species I like, and the nutrients I put into the tank.

Plyle02 I am actually wanting more bulbs to be able to incorporate the new generations and some ge bulbs as well, while still keeping my original lineup in the fixture. I like kz bulbs as well.

 

[DiscusHeckel]

If you buy an ATI powermodule, you will not regret it. However, make sure you buy decent T5 tubes that have the right longevity, spectrum and PAR output. I am pointing to T5 tubes. KZ tubes are good too, but sadly they are a lot more expensive than ATI ones.

 

[Piper27]

I am planning on mixing ati and kz with a ge bulb in the middle, I have ran giesman as well but like the other two better. Kz is my favorite because it keeps the best white color without looking washed out. I have been running an icecap ballast for some of my bulbs this year and I can defiantly tell which brands are cheap! *as a tank light burns out in the background*

 

[rovster]

I think your right about the slight difference. I think the extra fans keeps the bulbs cooler. I know that increases their longevity, and it may also increase PAR. Don't hold me to it but that is what I thought I read once upon a time

 

[acesq]

I think your right about the slight difference. I think the extra fans keeps the bulbs cooler. I know that increases their longevity, and it may also increase PAR. Don't hold me to it but that is what I thought I read once upon a time

Nah, the extra fans are necessary because the PM housing has less volume than the SP housing and is a much heavier gauge metal. I've had both and have taken them both apart. They use the same ballasts, same wiring and same reflectors. The sunpower can maintain the same operating temperature with fewer fans. The extra cost of the PM is in the metal and the sexy shape.