Reef Lighting

[rabendr2]

Hello, I am thinking of setting up a 20-30 gallon reef tank and have been searching craigslist every once in a while for good deals on used set ups/ lighting. I was wondering if this fixture
http://www.marinedepot.com/ps_ViewItem~action~view~idProduct~ES53103~idCategory~FILTFIPCTH~category~30_Inch_Fixtures-Power_Compact-Light_Fixtures-Lighting-Saltwater_Aquarium_Supplies~vendor~.html
would be adequate for most corals and possibly a clam / anemone down the road.

Also, how would it compare to this t-5 fixture:
http://www.marinedepot.com/ps_ViewItem~category~30_inch_Current_USA_Nova_Extreme_2x24_watt_T5_HO_10K_460nm_30in_Units~vendor~Current_USA~SearchStr~nove+extreme%2ct5+ho%2c460nm~action~view~idProduct~CU01137~idCategory~FILTFIT53U.html

I guess its the basic t-5 vs pc question. Any help will be appreciated, but if I don't respond quickly, don't worry I am out of town tomorrow.

 

[sweeTang21]

Power compacts will usualy perform better then the standard T5 bulbs. Unless your T5 system is High Output and uses individual reflectors, there really not the beneficial to corals and what not. Now if you were to spend a little more and get a top not T5HO or V-HO system then you will be golden and have much better color and temp control then Compacts will offer.

Lighting gets tricky really only when your deciding what your going to put under the lights, and this should be the determaning factor to what you chose.

My opinion is bias only because I love T5s. I have great color in my tank, No heat issues, and I have enough power to grow SPS. IMO you cant go wrong. Others will say that Halides with T5 or T12 VHO lighting supplementing into the equation gives you the best tank. Although this can be considered true, your electric bill will also resemble that lol.

For a tank that size, a Current nova will suffice, you get good output, good color, for a decent price. If your tank were any large, id say forget compacts and the nova t5s and spend your money on something worth it, and get a Sunlight Supply TEK light and have 0 issues. I have been a very big fan of this company and the product you get.