Actinic MH or VHOs??

[waterdog]

I am setting up my MH/VHO system and can't decide whether to use a 20K MH with 10K VHOs, or 10K MH with Actinic VHOs. If anyone out there has their experiences or opinions to share I would really appreciate it. :help:

 

[007]

you definitely want to use a 10K MH if you are running actinic supplements via VHO.
Either use 20K halides and nothing else; or 10K halides and actinic VHO's.
Using 10K vho with a MH would look odd IMO.

 

[nm reef]

The options are virtually limitless...and basically a personal choice.
I've decided on a pair of 250 watt 65K MH's and 2x110 watt super actinic VHO's...the MH's are reported to provide excellant growth and enough par/spectrum for a broad selection of corals and the actinics off set the coloration of the 65k MH's.
But that is my preference...as I said the options are limitless.:thinking:

 

[tyr-sog]

Maybe pictures would help the guy out.:thinking:

 

[leboeuf]

I run two 400W MH 20K (radiums) and two VHO super antics. I am in the process of adding another VHO antic. I love the deep blue look with lots of shimmer.

 

[fender]

I am going to be running a 10k MH and actinic VHOs. I am not sure but I think the REALLY heavy box under the tree is an Ice Cap 660.

 

[leboeuf]

as soon as you open the 660, fill out the registration card and return. I am dealing with that right now, pain in the a$$.

 

[reefnut]

I've went back and forth with this for a while trying to decide what combination to go with next... now I've decided to stay with 10k MH and actinic VHOs. Mainly because of the lower PAR the 20k have. I would like more blue... maybe another VHO or two.

 

[waterdog]

Thanks a lot for all of the input everyone. I don't like the super deep blue that the 20K Mh gives off. I think I will go with the 10K XM MH with 2 or 4 super actinic VHOs (depending on the look). Once again, thanks a lot everyone!