more about lighting

[timsta67]

so i understand that if i want to run a reef tank I need Metal Halides. Cool and I know the cheapest way to go is to shop used. So What brand names should i be looking for ? I still want the very best in equipment And while I'm talking about equipment is there some sort of list of equipment like check off list to get things rolling (with best brand names) I have started with some books like Conscientious Marine Aquorist, & Aquariums for dummies (which seems fitting) any help would be much appreciated
Thanks.

 

[snapperboy]

check the big auction site (thats where i got mine), this site doesnt seem to sell lighting so i cant recommend them

 

[teresaq]

what type of reef are you wanting. if you only want softies and polyps, then you can use pc or vho. I had a 55 gal reef with a 48 inch pc unit. Had great growth and lots of color. If you want tokeep anemonies then yes you need MH. Do you have a canopy?? if so then you can go with retro kits. just screw them in to the top of the canopy, if you dont you would need to go with a unit that has the mh built in. What size tank do you have.