Cheap lighting HQI... to good to be true?

[Dez]

I don't know about the fixture/reflectors. Bit I use cheap Chinese bulbs that my friend got for me. They were about $12 each and I bought 3 years worth (9 bulbs for just over$100). As you cansee from my pictures in the TOTM page. I get decent growth and colours. It doesn't hurt to try.

[apexifd]

for that price and free shipping... why not give it a try? everything can always get upgrade or retrofit later on.

If I have to setup another tank, I might even consider this. The saving will just go into live stock or other equipments.

[lastlight]

Just a note that's not an hqi fixture. Those are electronic ballasts =)

[The Grizz]

Originally Posted by lastlight

Just a note that's not an hqi fixture. Those are electronic ballasts =)

Would that not make it a better light with electronic ballasts?

[lastlight]

Generally speaking less electrical usage which is good but less par as well. Everything is electronic now for the most part.

[The Grizz]

If anyone tries this fixture let me know if it is any good. I might be tempted to switch back to MH on the 8'er.

[Wayne]

I am running a 24" one with a Vertex ballast and I haven't had any issues. I also have a friend running a 48" one with the original ballasts without issues.

I have read that the bulbs aren't the greatest quality, but once they are changed you should be good to go. The legs are really cheap, so a hanging kit is a good investment.

[daniella3d]

check out www.fishneedit.com many people have bought it and they are upgradable and supposably very nice. They also look great.

[RuGlu6]

Originally Posted by daniella3d

check out www.fishneedit.com many people have bought it and they are upgradable and supposably very nice. They also look great.

http://www.fishneedit.com/2-x-150w-m...t-2150223.html

Yes these do look good. Open design and presumably less heat.
However aquatreaders have 2x250 and more atractive price
$289 and free shipping for 2x250w+4T5+LED + Fans vs $389 +shipping for a 2x150W at fishneedit (no fans , no LED).
http://www.aquatraders.com/48in-Meta...ht-p/54267.htm
And the ballasts are OEM for icecaps

[jonnyjamms]

I do not know the fixture / reflector. I use low-cost light bulbs, my friend got me. They are about $ 12 every 3 years I bought value. As you can see my picture in the TOTM page. I get decent growth and colour. It does not hurt to try.