Just looking to get a bubble tip or 2 for my 55. It has been up and running for about 3 months now and I know I have to wait a couple more months. Before I make any purchases, I want to know what the pros have to say. Do I go T5 HO or Power compact? Both fixtures seem to be about the same price, so whats the main difference? and which would be better? Also, any brand suggestions?
SW noob lookin for lighting advice
- Thread starter Ppuzas
- Start date
Aquatraders.com and always buy the strongest light you can afford. In my experience t5 is the best of the two.
I was just looking at aquatraders, they have decent reviews for the prices. T5 was my first choice, I dont think Ill need something as serious as Metal Hallide. Think Id be ok with the 2 bulb, 108w fixture? http://www.aquatraders.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=52123P
Ppuzas;4766567; said:
Most likely no, you will probably need twice that to have an anemone be healthy in your tank. I agree that metal halides won't be necessary.
IMO T5's and PC's are about the same for providing light quality. It will depend on the fixture and bulbs used to an extent. I like that the PC's take up less space per watt.
The Odyssea fixtures on Aquatraders are obviously lower level quality fixtures and bulbs, hence the price, but they should work either way.
alright, thanks Hoops. So my best choice is probably this then, right? http://www.aquatraders.com/Odyssea-48in-4x54W-T5-HO-Light-Fixture-Extendable-p/52305.htm
Ppuzas;4768332; said:
From what I hear on these fixtures you should do just fine with all but the high light demanding anemones and corals.
Don't know if I mentioned it earlier, but you must replace these bulbs at least every 9 months because they go bad even though they still light up.