Please help with lighting decision

[coral88]

I’m setting up a frag grow out tank about 48in / 28in. Coral will be about 8in from top. I’m looking for cost effective options. The best watts per dollar I’ve found is T12 VHOs. I’ve not used them for coral before (I used on plaint tanks)and don’t really know if it’s a good deal or not. I’m thinking of going with four bulbs (440 watts) two 10K and two actinic. For a cost of about $200. If someone has a better Idea or could tell me of any experience they have with VHOs it would be very appreciated.

 

[coral88]

I just found on eBay a generic HO T5 light strip 48in with 4 bulbs for about $130. I have no idea what brand it or the bulbs are. If I try it I think I will use two of them bringing my cost to $260 for 432 watts.Let me know what you think. I would love some feedback

 

[twon8]

you get what you pay for, and i doubt that has individual reflectors, which you need with t5's to get the most light out of them.

 

[coral88]

I say that a lot and was not following my own advice. I have upped my budget I would like to stay under $800 and I’m now thinking MHs .For my 48in/28in frag tank .I’ve never used them before so have no idea what brand or bulb to go with. I am looking for growth and color in several different types of coral ,zoa,sps,lps, and some of my colored leathers. Someone please point me in the right direction.

 

[FateX8]

i would go with t5's if youre looking for cost effectiveness
http://www.marinedepot.com/ps_ViewI...h_ballast_and_reflectors)_For_T5~vendor~.html

 

[coral88]

Are T5s really comparable to MH?
I found 48in sunpod with 2/250 MHs for $650

 

[coral88]

I found 48in with 2/ 250w , 4/65w CF for $359 But it’s a Odyssea fixture and I know nothing about them other than there cheap

 

[coral88]

I'm going with MHs I'll post a pic when I get them