5500K and 12000K together?

[ksujason]

I am getting ready to start my 75 gallon reef tank. I was wondering what the appearance of the light would be if I used a 5500K 175W metal halide, and a 12000K 175W metal halide. I will also have 2 55W PC 10000K. Would the light look odd with the two different MH? Thanks for the help.

 

[luke]

Unless the MHs are nearly on top of each other the tank will look divided. It would be better to go with two 6.5k K or 10k K lamps. But if you have a good deal on these particular bulbs there is nothing wrong, in terms of coral care, with two different colors.
Luke

 

[ksujason]

I like a little more of a blue light. Am I better off with a 6.5k K or 10k K? I know the higher K value means higher costs.

 

[luke]

I agree, blue looks better... to a point. 10000K is the way to go. You will pay about 20-25 bucks more per bulb, but it is worth it, if that is the color you want. Remener you have to look at the tank everyday Assuming it does not aafect the inhabitants, in this case it does not, then personal preferance is the most important.
Luke

 

[ksujason]

Will the 10k K MH look the same as my 10k K PC?Would I need to change the PC lights out for actinics? Maybe I dont have a real clear understanding of what an actinic light is, but does anyone know their K value? does it really matter? Thanks