Which one should I get?

[sharuq1]

So from the sounds of it, it is recommended I go t5 and not mH? Keep your opinions coming, I want to do this right the first time and not be kicking myself in several months.

[Myka]

The only reason I could think of that you might end up wishing you went MH is if you started to fancy the SPS corals. Otherwise, I think T5s are better suited to the needs that you listed.

[Slick Fork]

There is no reason whatsoever that SPS cannot do well with t5 lighting. If you have doubts, search RC for the many many pictures of sps dominated reefs with nothing but T5 lighting over top.

The issue you'll have with MH's on a 36" tank is that 1 bulb isn't quite enough and 2 is probably a little too much in terms of coverage. The t-5 fixture will give you much more versatility in a smaller package. I have a 36" teklight that I'm going to put over my 33 gallon and am quite pleased with it.

[sharuq1]

Ok you have sold me on the t5 fixture, now all I need to do is find one to buy. If anyone finds a deal links dropped on this thread would be very appreciated.

Thank you so much for all the advice.

[Myka]

You just missed the Boxing Day sales!!! One of the guys on here had Tek fixtures on sale for 20% off. I'll go find a link to that thread...maybe he'll still sell to you at that price...?

Also, the Aquactinics brand is really good as well. They do odd bulb sizes, but I think their smallest is 5 bulbs and that would be too wide for your tank. Someone feel free to correct me on that.

Originally Posted by Slick Fork

There is no reason whatsoever that SPS cannot do well with t5 lighting. If you have doubts, search RC for the many many pictures of sps dominated reefs with nothing but T5 lighting over top.

I have SPS doing well under T5, but it's pretty easy to say that MH lighting is better for novice SPS reefers.





EDIT: Here's the link for the 20% off Sunlight Supply (Tek) fixtures. http://www.canreef.com/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=38108