Non-LED light for tank?

[boboyo]

Hi I've been lurking and doing research for a few weeks now, been reffered to come on here for more info by the reefer that works at my local pet store shoutout to you if you see this!!! (Nature store near fairview)


That being said, I found a good deal on a used tank and all the necessary equipment (starting out brand new is way out of my budget). The tank looks good, it has some livestock still living in it which was already reserved as soon as the ad was posted so I'm assuming its a safe tank to buy. Im basically buying everything but the rocks/fish/corals Also comes with skimmer and he's throwing in an RO/DI with it for me!!


My main concern is that this is an old tank with some "old school lights". Would that affect any of the corals I end up putting in it? I read up and watched a lot of videos on light and lighting settings and theres not much info on non-LED lights. Once I pick up the tank I'll have more info on the model of it but im just wondering if I should already start looking into an LED? As a first timer, I'm not getting picky corals, focusing on zoanthids/sinularia leather/toadstool/xenia/euphylia, etc. Will I be fine with an "old school light"? & whats a good light to have thats not too expensive for a 55gal tank? If old school lights are a no-go

 

[jeffchapok]

If by old school lights you mean the T8 fluorescent tube, they'll work. You can even still get actinic bulbs for them. But they're not nearly as bright as the newer T5 high output florescent fixtures.

I got 2 of these to supplement my lower end LEDs and I've been happy with them. 2 fixtures should be enough to grow some easier corals in a 55 gal without breaking the bank.

I even got to specify the color bulbs I wanted included (actinic and blue plus), but I got mine on eBay and not amazon. But the ebay seller is sold out right now.

 

[Bpb]

Old school can mean ALOT of things. Need more info

 

[Crustaceon]

Watch those “old school lights” end up being metal halides, lol.

 

[CanuckReefer]

If they are T5's then hang onto em imo...I'm a firm believer in a blend between that and LED...

 

[Jeffcb]

I got shocked several time's with T4 an inch off the water.... trying to get more. T5

 

[boboyo]

If by old school lights you mean the T8 fluorescent tube, they'll work. You can even still get actinic bulbs for them. But they're not nearly as bright as the newer T5 high output florescent fixtures.

I got 2 of these to supplement my lower end LEDs and I've been happy with them. 2 fixtures should be enough to grow some easier corals in a 55 gal without breaking the bank.

I even got to specify the color bulbs I wanted included (actinic and blue plus), but I got mine on eBay and not amazon. But the ebay seller is sold out right now.

Thank you!! Pretty sure its T8 now that I googled it! I really appreciate you guiding me towards the right place for further research!