Opinions for lighting a small coral qt/grow out tank

[gregzz4]

I can't say much about MH for your setup, but I'd suspect a pair of 150s would be good. I don't see a single pendant giving full coverage, but I'm sure others will disagree ...
As for T5s you stated you want some SPS. With a shallow tank as yours you could probably get away with a 6 bulb unit but I'd stay away from 4 as it's probably not going to be enough light, even with your shallower depth.

I have 8 bulbs covering my 18" front to back and have no shadows etc. My tank is 19" tall.