Which T5 bulb should I replace with

[Pensky]

I have a 48" Nova Extreme that I need to replace the T5 bulbs because they are old. I found the following two bulbs with a drastically different price and was wondering what the difference was. I have a reef tank with mostly soft corals so which bulb do you suggest I go with? Is it worth the extra $132 for the better bulbs? Does anyone have a suggestion where to purchase better bulbs or a better price?

AquaticLife 420/460nm T5 HO Fluorescent Lamps
https://www.fosterandsmithaquatics.com/product/prod_display.cfm?c=3578+20024+21443&pcatid=21443

AquaticLife T5 HO Ardent White 10,000°K Fluorescent Lamps
http://www.fosterandsmithaquatics.com/product/prod_display.cfm?c=3578+20024+21442&pcatid=21442

Retail for $18.39
Total for 8 Bulbs $147.12

T-5 HO Reef Blue Actinic Fluorescent Tubes
http://www.fosterandsmithaquatics.com/Product/prod_display.cfm?pcatid=13829

T-5 HO Reef White 10000°K Fluorescent Tubes
http://www.fosterandsmithaquatics.com/Product/prod_display.cfm?pcatid=13828

Retail for $34.99
Total for 8 Bulbs $279.92

Thanks

 

[rtparty]

Neither of those bulbs are good bulbs. The one selling at $35 is a total rip off.

Go to reefgeek.com and order from them. Or since you are in Missouri go to premiumaquatics.com. I believe they are located in Indiana.

I would go with 5 ATI Blue Plus, 2 ATI Aquablue and 1 ATI Purple Plus.

8 bulbs is going to cost you roughly $160-$180 to replace.

 

[Pensky]

great suggestion.. thank you very much.

 

[Eurobeaner]

+1 premium aquatics. they are 10 min from my house. a+ business!

i second the bulb choice as well. i have 2 ati blue+, 1 ATI aquablue, and one ATI purple+ and i LOVE the color

 

[Pensky]

I went with Premium aquatics and got exactly what was suggested and spent $180 Shipped. I love the color and have been extremly happy with the purchase. Thank you very much for the great advise