The Last piece of the puzzle!(lights)

[bikencamp]

I need some help I have a 55gal that I have everything for except lights. Its the last thing that I wanted to get for my set up. I was going to use compact, but still in limbo. My real question is I want a full reef and I am wondering what would be the best bang for the buck price wise for lights and what should I get. Not really wanting to spenf 500 big ones but don't want to get something that just is gong to be replaced in the near future. Any suggestions? Finially were is the best place to get these lights.
Thanks guys and gals

 

[wangotango]

I have the Aquactinics TX5 fixture on my 55. LPS, SPS, and clams are all doing great. Since they just raised their prices again it may be out of your $500 price range. The Four bulb TEK would be a cheaper alternative. You would be able to keep anything you wanted to with either.
Since we're not allowed to post links, all I can say is google search for them.
-Justin

 

[bikencamp]

What should I be looking for wattage and such. A friend just offered a Nova T-5 with 216 watts its 4 bulbs and has lunar lighting for a decent price would this be an exceptable light?

 

[travis89]

Originally Posted by Bikencamp
What should I be looking for wattage and such. A friend just offered a Nova T-5 with 216 watts its 4 bulbs and has lunar lighting for a decent price would this be an exceptable light?
If it's not the nova pro you will be limited on what corals you can keep. The Nova pro would allow you to keep most corals if not all I think, the TEK definately would but its a little more money.

 

[wangotango]

While the 4-bulb extreme isn't one of the best fixtures out there, you should still be able to keep some SPS towards the top. I wouldn't try anemones though. I'd use either ATI, Geisemann, or UVL bulbs though.
-Justin

 

[nycbob]

if u r opting for ther nova, get the nova extreme pro 6x54w for $150 more. much better system.

 

[walkerbrody]

IF you are into diy you can look for 175w metal halide parking lot lights and rewire them it is easy to do. The bulbs can be purchased online on E8ay cheaply. they use a m57 ballast and capacitor with a e39 mogul socket, both of which would be on a parking lot light. You can get a couple 175 mh for less than $200

 

[bikencamp]

Not much of a DIY guy. How inportant are lunar lights I don't think the nova pro has them.

 

[gotsalt]

Originally Posted by walkerbrody
IF you are into diy you can look for 175w metal halide parking lot lights and rewire them it is easy to do. The bulbs can be purchased online on E8ay cheaply. they use a m57 ballast and capacitor with a e39 mogul socket, both of which would be on a parking lot light. You can get a couple 175 mh for less than $200
has anyone tried this. how is your stock doing?