compacts vs vho

[beginnermatt]

I have read conflicting articles about compacts and vho lighting. I've heard that both run hotter than the other and the quality of light is better than each other. Any final thoughts on this topic. I'm leaning towards the pc because, I heard the bulbs last longer and I only want some basic inverts. How or what would you go about stocking inverts. in a 33 gal hex. Thanks for answering any questions.

 

[tacks]

Both are good. Honestly, without seeing two tanks side by side one with PC and one with VHO, you should just flip a coin. It's a matter of personal taste. Good Luck!!

 

[hondo]

PC lighting has come a long way lately and is very close if not equal to VHO as far as actinic lighting goes. I doubt if either is superior as both have their pluses and minuses. With PC you do get a more intense light, lower power usage, longer bulb life. With VHO you possibly get a better actinic bulb (although the true 03 actinic pc's are very good). It's a matter of personal choice and which you can make the better deal on. I personally have PC lighting on both my reef tanks and while I would like to upgrade to MH I have no desire to add VHO (nothing against VHO just seems light an expensive lateral move).