What lighting should I choose???

[MalawiMd]

I am trying to dedide if I should get PC lighting or VHO lighting for my 17 gallon nano. I will be keeping mainly soft corals. I have already decided I don't want MH lights. Mainly because I built an enclosed hood and I don't want the heat or the remote ballast.

Anyway, I think I can pick up a VHO ballast at GrayBar. I would have to buy a kit from marine depot for the PC lighting. I imagine the total cost would be similar though.

Let me know what you guys think.

Aaron

 

[pllb]

I would say PC but that is jmo

 

[Nanomaniac]

For just Softies you should be able to get away with using PC. What are the dimensions of your tank?

 

[Jemhidiah]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=7808587#post7808587 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Nanomaniac
For just Softies you should be able to get away with using PC. What are the dimensions of your tank?

Should be able to get away with? Ive seen thriving sps tanks with PC only lighting. Just have to have enough of it and the right spectrums.

 

[DRC69]

I also like and use PCs.

 

[MalawiMd]

My tank is a standard 24" width with an internal sump. I could probably fit 4 VHOs under the lid.

 

[MalawiMd]

Oh, it is 16 inches tall too.

 

[easye123]

t5's!!!

 

[MalawiMd]

Where do I find T5s?

 

[Velcroflyer]

I got my T5's from Reefgeek when I did my 220g. If you decide on them, get the Ice Cap Ballasts, Ice Cap SLR reflectors and Geismann bulbs.

 

[MalawiMd]

Whch puts out more light, two 65 watt PCs or two 24 watt t5s?

 

[oldreefer76]

t5's for sure beat pc's did pc's once and will never go back imho opinion they suck am a MH fan but may try t5's in the future