Difference in Actinic???????

[Octoberfest]

I'm getting ready to order some power compact bulbs and I don't know what the difference between Actinic 03 (420mm) and Actinic BLUE (460nm).

I would assume I would be buying the Actinic BLUE (460nm) but I don't want to make a mistake.

[Blazer88]

The 460nm is a blue bulb whereas the 430nm is considered "actinic" and while it is more of a dim/purple color, it will fluoresce the corals better (in my experience).

[Octoberfest]

so you're saying I should go with the 460 or 430? Its a dual bulb setup with white and actinics.

[Blazer88]

It depends on what you want. The 460nm will add more blue to the tank and balance out with the daylights better but the 03 actinics will add more color pop but will be more dim. I prefer the look of actinics versus the blue but everyone has different tastes. Maybe you can mix the two? Some manufacturers sell a "dual" actinic which includes both color spectrums.

[Octoberfest]

Thanks for your help