Upgrading to a Giesemann Nova II (250w) on my 20g. Thoughts & input please!

[OCDP]

I think I am going to upgrade my lighting (again.. I know) . Yet another great opportunity for me to upgrade some things. Since I've added a Refractometer , RO/DI unit, etc.. I want to just get the last of the upgrading DONE. So, it must be my lucky day or something because I am able to grab a Giesemann Nova II 250 HQI. I have never used one and haven't really seen many pictures with people using them or heard much about these pendants. So I am wondering if there's anyone here that uses one? And if so, how do you like it? Feel free to give me any input you may have.

As for the 250w HQI over a 20g tank, I'm a little weary. But, this is a great opportunity for me to upgrade, so I want to take advantage of this. It will get me motivated to get a new tank up as well. And all's I'll really need to make an upgrade now is more live rock.

So, how abouts should I go putting this new light up? It has the adjustable cables so I can raise or lower it no problem. Any input, or feedback on the pendant.. anything at all would be great. Thanks.

[muck]

Upgrade tank... I thought you sold the new tank. What are you planning now Scott..

[mr_alberta]

They are nice fixtures from what I have seen. However, they had some quality assurance and customer service problems a while back IIRC from what I've read on Reef Central.

One strange thing I found is that I think they still use hammertone for their reflectors which confuses me as I'm sure there are much better materials out there to use as a reflector.

Their bulbs are usually pretty nice as well. The 13.5K Megachrome ones I used were great and unbelievably bright.

[OCDP]

haha, I know.. the reason I sold it is because I never made the best dimensions to fit my room... so it would have worked, but it would have been ugly. So, I have to make up some new dimensions for the new tank.

[OCDP]

Thanks Harvey,

I posted this on RC as well (just to get more user feedback) And someone already said they are known for their ballasts burning out. Crappers... this is dissapointing. I would really like to try this pendant out.

The same person said that removing and replacing bulbs is a PITA. That's not a biggy for me as I am confident it can't be that difficult.

I used the 13.5k (by itself, no actinics) And found it to be very very yellow. It was bright though.

Looking for as much feedback as possible. Thanks again

[Willow]

why dont you stop dicking around with a 20 gallon and get a decent sized tank.

[muck]

[OCDP]

Originally Posted by Willow

why dont you stop dicking around with a 20 gallon and get a decent sized tank.

Haha ... in time, in time. It's not too easy to put a full blown reef in a tiny ass bedroom ya know? The joy's of living at home with your parents.

Does anyone have any USEFUL information or input/feedback on these pendants? Sheesh.. leave my 20g alone.

[albert_dao]

Are you buying a used pendant?

[OCDP]

Yes.