T5 Lighting
 

I am thinking of changing the lighting on my 120G
is 24 inches deep, would a 8 x 54W Tek be sufficient ?

What do you want to keep in there? 8 bulbs of T5HO you will be able to keep SPS on the bottom no problems as thats alot of light. Even 6 bulbs would suffice but those 2 extra places are nice for playing with colour.

it will be a mix of everything
some SPS, LPS, softies.

Should be Ok, but personally I wouldn't go less than 8 if your going to have SPS. It will also give you more flexibility with bulb combinations.

t5
 

I would wait for the new tek elites with built in fans and supposedly better reflectors. Reefgeek taking orders now, so should be on the way soon.

explain why

I strongly disagree I had my 120 gal going when i was in Afghanistan, with a 8 bulb tek lighting. i had LPs in there its was ok , my clams had to be at the top. The Sps IME wont really get the kick that they need.

I really see MH having the punch that they have to penatrate the water.

Look at his tank depth, he also would have more lights than you.

120 48x24x24 that is what I used to have and 2 extra 54w tubes isnt going to make is any better

at a 24" depth, you won't have your SPS on the bottom.. well let me refrase that.. they will grow and live but they will rely more of feeding than light for energy. over 20" I recomend MH as well as T5, you can keep them with just the T5 but idealy MH will give you that extra edge.

Steve