Watts vs. Kalvin(sp??)

[andymi]

OK, here goes. I went and did some reasearch on my 108 watt compact lighting system. Here is what I found. When comparing the VHO next to a Compact I noticed the compact lets off much more light than the VHO system. The system that I purchased has a mirror type backing behind the light. It emits 12,000k daylight and 7500k blue. This seems like a good amount of light for a coral tank. Can someone please help me understand how many k of light a reef tank should get as compared to watts? I understand that with VHO lights typically that you do want the 3 watts per gallon, but with this systems supposedly you only need the kalvin rating.
For those who are familiar with the JBJ lighting manufacturer this light is similar. Supposedly it directs 98% of all light into the tank which is supposed to give more light exposure vs. a VHO system. Just your thoughts before I go and spend another $150 or so on more lights if I dont need them. My tank is extremely bright right now and would hate to cook fish
--Andy

 

[andymi]

Thanks a lot, if I added another of the same type of light do you think I would be ok for most corals? I dont have anything yet, just figured I would check with the gurus before I bought another light. I want something that fits under my customer lid vs. hanging from the ceiling or something. If I can add another of the same light and be ok , then I can do that before getting any more coral.
--Andy