Lights...again...

[ericp2311]

I'm about to buy a new 48'' pc light setup. I have two choices, 4x65 or 4x96 (watts). The 4x96 costs significantly more than the 4x65. Actually, the price is almost double. Is is worth the extra $$$$$? Is there a real difference between which organisms will thrive under each setup? Help!!!

 

[spanky]

Tank size/dimensions?

 

[ericp2311]

It's a standard 55gallon. Right now I have a tellow tang, royal gramma, two damsels, percula clown and a cleaner wrasse (...). Oh, and a scooter blenny. I've got about 60 lbs of live rock. I'm currently using cheapy flourescents.

 

[ericp2311]

Oh, I didn't mention...the tank has been up and running for one year, and water quality has been excellent. Most of the time.

 

[spanky]

I can not recall anybody ever complaining about having too much light, so I lean hard towards more is better. It may be a significant cost increase now, but it will be MUCH more expensive later if you decide to go cheap now and later discover it isn't adequate.
Obviously, it depends on the organisms you wish to keep. If you go with the 4 X 96 option, you'll be at almost 7 watts per gallon. That would be great - even if you wish to keep light-hungry clams and colals on or near the bottom of your tank. I think you would be marginal with those organisms on or near the bottom if you go with the cheaper solution.

 

[kdfrosty]

If the price is double for the 4x96, you should look in to metal halides. Save yourself way more $$ in the long run by spending a little more $$ now. They are probably priced similar to the 4x96 setup you wre looking at.

 

[ericp2311]

MH would be great, but I find them intimidating! What I want is a ready-to-go device that I can set right on top of my tank and plug in. I'm not the DIY kind of person. All the MH setups like that are, like, six hundred bucks! Unless anyone knows where else to look?