ok, I've narrowed it down to these lights....

[azonic]

Ive got a couple to make my final decision from. Im canadian but have listed all prices in AMERICAN funds.
#1 - 2 x 55w power compacts $207 + 15% tax
#2 - 3 x 96w power compacts $300 + $45 shipping, no tax
#3 - 4 x 55w power compacts $225 + $45 shipping, no tax
All of these come with either a plastic or aluminum hood. Also, the bulbs are included.
I don't want to be limited very much as to what I could keep. MH's are just too expensive right now...and I havent seen VHO lights running so i cant say if i like them more then PC's not so their not an option.(LFS only has PC's and MH's running in store)
Anyway, opinions wanted. The owner of the LFS said that if I got the 3 x 96w kit then it would be too much light and would bother fish and corals...??? is that true? my tank is 38 gallons...and is 36"x20"x12".
Thanks in advance...again

 

[ed r]

I think your choice needs to be either 2 or 3. Good reflectors help. Fans can be very valuable, even with PCs. Are there other features in 2 or 3 to sway you? I don't think you can have too much light if you are considering SPS, clams, and some anemonees. Since you have ruled out metal halide, you definitely want more than the 2x 55 in choice number 1. Good luck.

 

[byrself]

yeah, i agree with ed. get the most watts you can. especially if you are going to wanna keep more light dependant corals down the road. and if you are going to use the hood, i recommend the aluminum. they are built nicely , if its from the comicbroker guy. having the fans are nice. i'm glad they goofed and accidentally sent them to me

 

[tankstolove]

I won't concern myself with the lights you have chosen and beleive they are the best for you.
I would go with the 3 by 96watt chose, how ever if price is a real issue. Then I would go with the 4 bulb choice. They are not as much light, though they are spread over a larger area.
All are great choices, good luck on the purchase.

 

[goofyreefer]

I have a 40 gallon breeder tank with 316 watts of PC's on it. I have 4x55 and 1 x96. I added the 96 watt PC a few months after the 55's. If I had to do it over again I would WITHOUT DOUBT go with all 96 watt PC's instead of 55 watt PC's. Where are you looking to get your lights from?