Lighting questions

[lorenz0]

all depends what 4x24 watt fixture it is. depends on what type of reflectors it has. a single reflector fixture, nope. a Individual reflector fixture, yes. also depends on your bulb combo. Some t5 guys run pure actinic's to bring the par down for lower light corals while others would only run like a actinic plus to still get the highest par as possiable.

[schroeder]

T5 means no shimmer i.e. refraction lines...

I'm moving from flourescent to halide because of the look that halide gives, regardless of intensity.

[danny zubot]

I would miss the shimmering effect that MH gives, but I kind of want to try something new. I have 2 24 watt T5 actinics right now so I could devote all four bulbs to a full sprectum of bulbs. I have an SPS dominated tank though and I'm worried that 6 t5's won't be enough. Currently I'm using a 400 watt light, but have to keep all of my corals low in the tank to prevent burning.

Regarding overdriving these bulbs; would I be able to do this with my Workhorse 7 ballast, or would that be too much? Sorry, I'm limited with my electrical knowledge.

[danny zubot]

all depends what 4x24 watt fixture it is. depends on what type of reflectors it has. a single reflector fixture, nope. a Individual reflector fixture, yes. also depends on your bulb combo. Some t5 guys run pure actinic's to bring the par down for lower light corals while others would only run like a actinic plus to still get the highest par as possiable.

The one I had in mind is the New Wave 4 bulbs fixture. It's economical because it isn't pretty, but it would be housed in an enclosed canopy type thing anyway. It has individual "German" reflectors.

[lorenz0]

with that fixture, you should be good for almost anything you wanted, depending on the depth of width of the tank

edit...

almost anything. lower light sps for sure near the top

[fishytime]

The "new wave" only has one cord, so no dawn/dusk effect....It also doesnt have polished reflectors.....and in case you didnt know, Im only running 6 bulbs

[danny zubot]

Well, something like the New wave then. I understand the importance of the reflector. Time to start shopping! Thanks everyone for your help.