120 gal reef lighting question!!

[dori girl]

I am in the process of setting up my first sw tank. I am going to start slow with LR/LS and at some point after cycling, some reef safe fish. I do want to attempt a reef. What is everyone's opinion on VHO's or metal hallides. My tank is 48'' long 24'' deep and 24'' wide. The lights have to go on top of the tank (i cant suspend metal hallides above the tank). Can I do just VHO or do I have to have metal hallides to have a reef? Any detailed suggestions, like what brand, what website to go to, etc. would be much appreciated!!
Thanks!!
:joy:

 

[bdhough]

2 400 watt halides one on each side and 3 or 4, 4 foot vho's i'd just do 4... you get this setup and you'll be able to keep anything you want.
as for spectrum of buld thats up to you. i think i personally would do the halides at 20k, 3 of the vho's as actinics, and one as a 50/50 so youll have the ability to create a nice dawn dusk effect.

 

[logan15]

I would do Dual 400 Watt 10K XM's with 1-2 VHO Actinics but 2 400 Watt 20K XM's plus 3Actinics would give the tank a Deep blue look way too much go 2 10K and 2 20K IMHO

 

[jlem]

I like PC's and VHO together