What ya think for a 120... 250 or 400?

[aiko670]

I'm looking to get new lights for my new 120, I currently have a 175 watt setup but I don't think it's going to cut it. I plan on keeping mostly SPS although it's a mixed reef now. SPS, LPS, Softies, Clams etc...

thx
Adam

 

[Doubledown]

24 deep I like the 250 DE HQI. Puts out about the same light (depending on bulb) as a similar 400 standard and saves on electricity and heat.

Or look into a 250 electronic SE with the Luminarc reflectors. Coverage with the Luminarcs is supposed to be unreal and you will get more mileage with less opperating cost (electricity, bulb replacement, etc.). Only disadvantage to the Luminarcs is their size - no room for actinics unless you mount them below the reflectors.

 

[Evolley1]

I aggree with Chris on all of that. I think you can get away with 250's and be satisfied...I am. If you have a chiller and want to go overkill with the lights 400 would be your option

 

[Sullyman]

I third it, 250.

 

[Rod Buehler]

It all depends on the complete set up, but I would also recommend 250s but definately only on an M80 HQI ballast. My preference is to overdrive the single ended lamps witth an HQI ballast.

by doing this you can get more par from most lamps, for instance,
10KK se on a 400 (M59) will produce a par of 172 (Per Sanjay
10KK se on a 250 (M80) will produce a par of 182 (per sanjay
www.reefaquariumlighting.arvixe.com

Its not the same with every lamp on every ballast, but for the most part, HQI ballasts will drive the hardest. Standard ballast run in second place and electronics fall way behind on most lamps.

 

[aiko670]

Hey Rod-

Thx I didn't know you could do that. I already have my reflectors and mogul sockets so that's a good idea.

I'd love to read that link but it doesn't seem to be good. Can you double check that?

Thanks for all the advice, 250's it will be!
Adam

 

[Rod Buehler]

ooops.

http://reeflightinginfo.arvixe.com/

 

[aiko670]

Thanks!
AP