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

lastlight · #1 12-13-2010, 11:36 PM

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

The Grizz · #2 12-14-2010, 01:25 AM

Quote:

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 · #3 12-14-2010, 01:31 AM

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

The Grizz · #4 12-14-2010, 01:38 AM

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 · #5 12-14-2010, 02:19 AM

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.

The Grizz · #6 12-14-2010, 03:42 AM

This is really got me thinking, it would cut down on bulb cost ( I have a supplier for good quality inexpensive one's) and would be only 2 fixtures instead of 4.

The Grizz · #7 12-14-2010, 05:30 AM

Anyone know if there is a ballast for the PC's and if so would it run T5s ??

daniella3d · #8 02-20-2011, 08:58 PM

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

RuGlu6 · #9 03-02-2011, 10:00 AM

Quote:

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

1eyedjyde · #10 03-13-2011, 08:19 AM

I'm posting to see what peoples' experiances have been with dealing with Aqua Traiders. Odyssea seems to have been improving over the years and you cant beat the prices.