New lighting system help

[fuerte91]

The fixture i have now needs to be replaced, but i'm not entirely sure what i could use. i have a clam, some sps, and lps, and a variety of other corals. The fixture I have now is an 8 bulb and everything was growing well. I was wondering if I should get another 8 ulb T-5 fixture, if i could do a 6 bulb T5, or if i should go to halides. Thanks for any opinions and suggestions

 

[tank a holic]

I'm a firm believer in MH's but then again I believe if it aint broke dont fix it
wouldn't recommend the 6 fixture though

 

[fuerte91]

hhhmmm, the only thing that's holding me back from getting an MH fixture is the overheating, as the fixture i have now makes the water a little warmer than i would want. I'm glad i got your reply, because on a similar post, i was told that much light was excessive for a 55 gallon tank.
btw, i love the picture of your lab

 

[nycbob]

if ur current 8-bulb t5 fixture doesnt hv individual reflectors, then getting a
6-bulb t5 with it would actually be an upgrade.

 

[fuerte91]

oh, that's interesting. the one i have now does not have the individual reflectors. thanks for the advice