I need input Lol

ScottyMcReefer · Nov 19, 2010

I currently have pc lighting on my biocube. I want to go with t5 because of output and bulb combos. .... I need input because these pc aren't giving me the growth I want. Thanks

Pizzapro83 · Nov 19, 2010

I would go to a new pet store.

Grambruno · Nov 19, 2010

In my personal experience and research, T5 is better than PCF. Make sure you are getting a good quality reflector. It makes a difference.

Can some one suggest brands with good reflectors?

ScottyMcReefer · Nov 19, 2010

Suggest anything and everything

ScottyMcReefer · Nov 19, 2010

I was wanting wavepoint 4x24

Speg · Nov 19, 2010

Well, there are many differences between the two bulbs. PCs are generally more expensive than T5's... They will consume less energy and produce less heat will should reflect a little on your electricity bill...

People have awesome looking SPS-only tanks where they use T5 bulbs...I haven't seen any SPS only PC tanks...

Just sayin...

Battlecorals · Nov 19, 2010

I always love when lfs owners know it all.

ScottyMcReefer · Nov 19, 2010

im looking to bring out the color of my zoanthids and palys. Other sps too. So T5 is the route to go??

Grambruno · Nov 19, 2010

Yes and the better the refector the more light goes into tank.

Grambruno · Nov 19, 2010

You need to find a better store or shop online. Buy quality.

ScottyMcReefer · Nov 19, 2010

give examples of quality please. Good T5 fixtures.

_Alex_ · Nov 19, 2010

Ati, tek, icecap all good t5 fixtures and diy stuff on icecap

ScottyMcReefer · Nov 19, 2010

anymore thoughts on this??

Sasquatch · Nov 19, 2010

hmm, seems like quite a big change? have you considered a couple of led strip lights? they add lots of light and color and you wouldn't have to rip everything out

bhelne01 · Nov 20, 2010

ditto, you may want to look for another LFS to deal with. T5s are the way to go. ATi ICECAP and tek are great fixtures you can even go with a Current fixture if you are looking to save $$$

but one factor that you should not over look are the bulbs themselves. "A fixture is only as good as the bulbs that is in it." there are numerous color combos that are suggested here is my suggestion from 2 ATI blue plus 1 ATI aquablue special and 1 ATI purlpe plus. IMO this will give you great colors

ScottyMcReefer · Nov 25, 2010

well guys i bought my T5. I got a nova extreme 4x24. here are some before and after pics....keep in mind i woke everything up late to just check it out so everything is closed =/ Plus im an amateur lol so cut me some slack on the rockscape and coral =/

PC Lighting | Flickr - Photo Sharing! pc lighting
T5 Lighting | Flickr - Photo Sharing! T5 lighting...yes the color pops so much my little cell phone camera cant take it. LOOKS FAR BETTER IN PERSON. and i must say im very pleased about my T5 conversion.

ScottyMcReefer · Nov 25, 2010

yes.... i have a few corals dying off due to my LFS teaching me everything wrong. I did find a new source and already my tank is coming alive again. Stinks i didnt know him from the start, but we live and learn.

Captain Nemo · Nov 25, 2010

IMO I would kick your LFS to the curb! Dude does not know what he is talking about! T5's are way better than Pc's, again just IMO. Also I personally like the LED strip idea, they make the colors really POP!!! I will attest to the coralvue ones with 18 blue bulbs (I think), as we use 3 of these on the tank at work and they are awesome. Goodluck and find a new LFS!

_Alex_ · Nov 25, 2010

looks a lot better! and rock work looks pretty good! glad to hear you found someone better to help you that always makes a world of difference!!!

ScottyMcReefer · Nov 25, 2010

thanks harry, appreciate it. I seriously almost gave up the hobby because i was so stressed, but i now know what im doing and well....Im back better than ever =)