build a light?

[superdust]

I was wondering if anyone has built a 175 watt metal halide system? I have saw the plans for the 250 watt system on the net for 100 dollars, but i didnt really want 250 watts.
I have also heard about cheap VHO systems does anyone know any thing about these setups?
Any DIY light info will be appreciated!
Thanks,
Dustin

 

[johnnysalt]

Superdust,
Is <a href="http://www.rpi.edu/dept/union/aquarium/public_html/DIY_MH.html" target="_blank">this the 250w mh website </a> you looked at? I'm with you....I only have 18-20" in height from the sand to where my bulb(s) will be, so I guess I'll only need 175w too.
Ready for your help, diy'ers!!
John

 

[mr . salty]

I have two 175 watt retros with 10k blueline bulbs over my 130 FOWLR.I got them at <a href="http://www.aquaticlight.com./" target="_blank">http://www.aquaticlight.com./</A> .At $75 each,they are the best deal on the net....

 

[superdust]

JohnnySalt,
Thats the site i know about do check out that site that Mr. Salty gave i think this is what i think i will eventually buy.
Mr. Salty,
Do you have to place the ballast in a electrical box like some of the other retros? I am really a novice electrican do they come with GOOD instructions?
Thanks!

 

[johnnysalt]

Mr. Salty,
I went to that site, but with the retro kits they don't have the 10k....just 4300, 5500 and then goes up to 12000.
Are you trying to say you ORIGINALLY got the 4500's for $75 each. If so, where they too yellowish? What do you think of the color of most 5500's? I'd like to use either of these with an actinic N.O. bulb or two...would that be a balanced color look??
Thanks!
John

 

[johnnysalt]

Is there much difference in color between the 4300's and the 5500's? I'm comparing the two retro kit prices at <a href="http://www.aquaticlight.com/retrofit.html" target="_blank">www.aquaticlight.com</a>....I'll spend an extra $40 if the 5500's are not as yellowish, but if not why waste the $$?!
Thanks for your replies!