lighting options

[EnFuego]

I am trying to plan the next tank. Right now, I am thinking about 38" long x 30" wide x 24" tall. For lighting, how does this look:

http://www.marinedepot.com/md_viewItem.asp?idproduct=SL2531

is there a big quality difference from this:

http://www.marinedepot.com/md_viewItem.asp?idproduct=AQ1821

Any other ideas for lights to consider? I am wanting a pendant because I want to do an open top tank. Thanks.

[d4a2n0k]

The Maristar uses external ballasts which means you dont have a 60 lb. light hanging above your tank like with the Aqua Medic. Many complain about noisy ballasts in the Aqua Medic as well, they seem to make a constant humming sound. The Blue Wave ballasts on the Maristar are silent.

The Maristar also uses better reflectors for the MH and for the T-5's. Can you see where this is going? :) The obvious difference though is the price but you definitely get what you pay for.

I just got a 24" Maristar two weeks ago and love it.

By the way, get your butt over to Premiumaquatics.com as they sell the Maristar fixture for over two hundred bucks cheaper than Marine Depot.

[d4a2n0k]

Here a few shots of mine. I got the silver because Premium Aquatics has them for a very good deal but they only have them in the 24" and 48" versions.

http://i122.photobucket.com/albums/o266/gbannister/Picture008.jpg
http://i122.photobucket.com/albums/o266/gbannister/IMG_1346.jpg
http://i122.photobucket.com/albums/o266/gbannister/Picture018.jpg
http://i122.photobucket.com/albums/o266/gbannister/Picture016.jpg

[EnFuego]

Thanks a lot for the reply. I have an MH only aquamedic pendant over my current 30 gallon, so I understand the hum from the ballast.
I've got the same skimmer on my tank too (I'm assuming its the MCE600). It looks like your off to a great start with that tank.

And thanks for the heads up on Premium Aquatics.

[d4a2n0k]

No problem. Yes, it is an MCE600 skimmer and I love it. Its my 2nd Deltec, first being an AP701, and I didnt even look at other brands when I needed a HOB skimmer. Tank has only been setup for two weeks, added live rock about a week ago. The skimmer went right to work and is pulling some nasty junk out. :)

There is supposedly a Maristar II fixture coming out at some point. Its supposed to have been released every month since November so who knows when it will be for sale. The new fixture will have 4 x T5's instead of the 2 and some extra goodies. Im sure the price will reflect the additions though. Just something to keep in mind.

Good luck with whatever light you decide on.