3 x 175W MH or 3 x 250W MH - what should I do?

[targaboy78]

Here's the rundown;

I have a 175 gal Oceanic Bowfront (Reef-ready)
Dimensions are 72½"L x 24"W x 28½"H

I am interested in this "type" of fixture but haven't decided on the 'horsepower'.
http://www.jlaquatics.com/cgi-bin/sh...ogno=zhm-hdp63
It's a 72" fixture - 3 x 175W MH 5500K with 4-55W PC for 1449.00 CDN + taxes
upgraded to 175W MH 10,000K + 189.00 = 1638.00 CDN + taxes
upgraded to 250W MH 10,000K + 364.00 = 1813.00 CDN + taxes


Here's my dilema;

It will eventually be a reef tank, but for now it will start it's life as a FOWLR. However, I don't want to be making large lighting purchases every couple of years. The height being 28½" may be a factor.

I eventually would like Soft, LPS, SPS, Clams, etc...

I have access to one of these units (3 x 175W MH 10,000K with 4-55W PC) Brand New for $900 CDN + taxes

I'd save about $549 CDN over this listed price.
more importantly I'd save $913 CDN over the 3 x 250W model.

I guess my 3 real questions are;

1> Would I be limiting myself if I stick to 3 x 175W MH ?

2> Would the depth make a difference or could corals with a higher light requirement be situated directly under the light and maybe higher on the LR?

2> Is the 3 x 250W really worth twice the price of the 3 x 175W?

Thanks in Advance.