Anyone know anything about this T5HO fixture?

[lsc4910]

I bought a 48" dual T5HO fixture made by GLO for my 60 gallon tank and they're complete junk. I'm taking it back to my LFS tomorrow, due to nonstop problems with them. I bought it for $196, I believe, so I'd like to stay around that $200 price point. With that said, I found these online for $205:

Sunlight Supply Inc 48 in. TEK-LIGHT T5 HO Fixture - 4 x 54W
Tek-Lights are high output, ultra efficient T5 fluorescent lighting fixtures constructed of lightweight, heavy duty, rust proof aluminum. The units feature a sleek, 2 1/2 in. high profile, 2 switches, and 2 eight ft. power cords for easy lighting control and use of independent timers. The unique, high quality German aluminum reflector increases output by over 300%. This cool running, silent unit is 4 ft. long, and accommodates four 54W T5 lamps
Does anyone know anything about these? They seem like a good price for a 4 bulb fixture, but I don't want to end up with junk again.
Thanks in advance,
Caleb

 

[btldreef]

They're decent. Not the worst, but not the best either.
What is your ultimate goal for the tank? Fish only, reef, mixed reef, predominantly SPS?
For most reef applications, I'd say 4 bulb fixtures that are setup with your standard 2 daylight, 2 actinics, it usually is not enough on a 60g.

 

[lsc4910]

Quote:
Originally Posted by BTLDreef http:///forum/thread/385155/anyone-know-anything-about-this-t5ho-fixture#post_3376809
They're decent. Not the worst, but not the best either.
What is your ultimate goal for the tank? Fish only, reef, mixed reef, predominantly SPS?
For most reef applications, I'd say 4 bulb fixtures that are setup with your standard 2 daylight, 2 actinics, it usually is not enough on a 60g.
Definitely prefer mixed reef. I don't care too much for SPS. I'm more attracted to LPS, mushrooms, ricordeas, and zoas.
I'm a beginner, but I've done tons of research over the past year in preparation for this tank. I understand T5HO or MHs are needed for corals, correct? What would you suggest that won't break the bank?
Thanks, BTLD,
Caleb

 

[nikesb]

youll get the SPS bug sooner or later
as for the TEK system, its probably one of the better fixture available only to be topped by ATI. CurrentUSA, Aquaticlife, etc still dont match up to TEK. Do yourself a favor though and get a TEK elite as it will help the bulbs last longer.