If you read my past posts, I would swear the T-5 lighting was as good, although Steve never agreed with me.
. However I only ran 4 over my 90 and would guess I needed 2 more.
My friend runs an 8 bulb over his and I thought that was even better yet. However, after putting a pair of 250w halides on my 90, my sps responded with growth and brilliant colors in comparison. I cant say if another 2 bulbs would have done that or not but I cant see it. I also see clams, etc. from the 8 bulb system, respond positive to my halides.
As I said in my last thread, there is even a large difference between a single halide over my cube and a pair over my 90g. And I mean a very easily detected appearance in the corals.
Plus, I read Steves par reading and wonder about their penetration. Another thing, IMO, for bulbs that are suppose to last for 18 months, mine appeared to decreasing long before that. And "that" is one of the main reasons I wanted to switch.
I look at the pics of T-5 tanks and wonder how they do that,as mine never. I would like it to work and would likely set my 90 up again, if I could get the same results from 6-54w T-5 bulbs.
I have thought of giving a properly set up Jaubert system another run and my 90 would be perfect for that. I wonder if the extra 5 to 6 in. of height would then make a 24in. deep tank more suitable for T-5,s. Looked at some really nice Constallation fixtures this morning. With or without Icecap fans, reflectors, and ballasts.
Anyways, thats my two bits worth Mik. I liked mine but not the results. They were cooler for sure and I notice the 8 bulb fixture is pretty cool also.Both open tops though and fan cooled. I did miss the halide look but liked the overall coverage and never found it to be pastel or anything, as some seem to think. I liked the ability to switch bulbs and change colors.
Some other good threads,
http://216.187.96.54/vbulletin/showt...hlight=t-5%2Cs
http://216.187.96.54/vbulletin/showt...hlight=t-5%2Cs
http://216.187.96.54/vbulletin/showt...hlight=t-5%2Cs
http://216.187.96.54/vbulletin/showt...hlight=t-5%2Cs