Need help picking a bulb for new build...

[mikearoni]

Im upgrading to a 90g soon, and I need to order my lights this week. But I seem to have a bit of a set back, I am unsure of what bulbs to get. The new tank will be 20in high, and the bulbs will be 6in above the water.

I currently have a 55g with 4xt5's and this is my first time with metal halides. I love the colors of the t5's but would like to keep more sps in the new tank.

 

[mikearoni]

so far ive been reading up and im leaning toward the xm 10k's.

 

[mikearoni]

alright Ive taken a whole new approach toward my lighting. Ive seen the pictures of the 250w 20k radiums, and thats the look I want to get. My only question is will 1 be enough for a 90 gallon 40L 26 deep 20 high with a 12in canopy? or should I get 2 of these in order to cover the tank?

 

[revhtree Verified Admin]

You will definitely want 2 bulbs, and I can not express enough how awesome Radium 250w 20k bulbs are!

 

[mikearoni]

After seeing dome of the pics of yours and several other tanks, Ive decided to really think about getting these, the colors are amazing. Do you use anything else like t5's or are you using just the radiums?

 

[revhtree Verified Admin]

I am using VHO supplements, but they do not make much a difference in looks when paired with the radiums. I do use them mainly for morning and evening effects.

 

[mikearoni]

well I decided to go with the radium 20k's. My order was placed yesterday and I should receive them next week before Christmas. Thank you all who responded and voted. new 90g build thread coming soon.

 

[revhtree Verified Admin]

Awesome! Post as soon as you fire them up. You are going to die when you see how good your tank looks! I went from Hamilton 14ks..