would a switch from 196 watt PC to 154 watt T5 really be an upgrade?

[Txcowboy22]

I am thinking about replacing my jbj formosa with T5's. I don't want to do it unless I really would be able to tell the difference. How much difference would I be able to see in the color/growth of my corals? Does anyone think it would be worth the expense? I am thinking about the Current USA Nova 4x39 watt fixture. Thx reefers!

[FranktheTankTx]

Any T5 would be an upgrade over PC. However, I wouldn't go with a Current Nova. Although if you were absolutely sold on on the Nova, get the Nova Extreme Pro. It has individual reflectors which increase the light output.

Although I suggest something like a Tek T5.
Like this for example: http://www.reefgeek.com/lighting/T5_Fluorescent/Sunlight_Supply/Tek_Light_Fixtures/36_inch__Tek_Light:_4-39W_T5_High-Output_Fixture_with_Bulbs_by_Sunlight_Supply

With that set up you get to hand select the bulbs which they carry some of the best. ATI and UVI bulbs.

[crossi92]

Absolutely!!!

I went from a 192w pc to 156w (4x39w) T5 and can't beleive the difference!

You really do need to get something with individual reflectors to make real difference.

[oct2274]

with good individual bulb reflectors T5HO has atleast twice the output as PC at the same wattage.

[Txcowboy22]

my tank is pretty narrow and all the tek and nova pro are wider than my tank, does anyone know of something else that isn't so wide?

[oct2274]

check in the new Current Sundial T5HO fixture. It has the individual contoured reflectors like the extreme pro. 4 bulbs is more then enough for a 46 bowfront and will be able to support any coral you want with the right bulb combination.

http://www.current-usa.com/sundial_t5ho

they sell these at drsfostersmith.com i believe

[FranktheTankTx]

A 12" light fixture would fit fine on a 46 bow. I had one, uh still do sitting in the garage. The ATI T5 light fixtures are only 9.5" wide. These are some of the best you can buy!
http://www.reefgeek.com/lighting/T5_Fluorescent/ATI/Powermodule_Fixtures/

[Txcowboy22]

that link is no good

[FranktheTankTx]

The only thing I don't like about the Current models is they come with Current T5 bulbs. This is a huge downer. ATI and UVI make some of the best T5 bulbs there are. Yes, they will make a huge difference. Plus, you can get the coloration you desire because they have a great selection.

For instance, if you liked a "Ice blue" deep ocean look you could go with
2-ATI Aqua Blue (14k)
ATI Blue Plus
UV Super Actinic

You would be so impressed with this bulb combination compared to your PC. If you bought a Current fixture and then re bought the bulbs... you could have bought a much better light fixture like a TEK or ATI. Both will fit on your 46g.

[FranktheTankTx]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11520828#post11520828 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Txcowboy22
that link is no good

Sorry, couldn't get the copy and paste to work... just follow the updated link and select the 36" 4-bulb w/ bulbs model.

[Txcowboy22]

What about Catalina aquarium lighting? These are a lot less and still made in the USA and they say they have individual reflectors..........

[x2uranium]

I just did alot of contemplating but Finally decided to bite the bullet just yesterday bought Icecap 660, Icecap reflectors Giessman endcaps with standoffs and new bulbs!! I have PC 54W i cant wait to see the difference. The entire package cost me Aprox. $400 With everything