Which Fixture to Choose for 90 Gal?

[customdusty]

I have been going back and forth of which fixture to choose for my 90 gal mixed reef. I have been evolving in the hobby and slowly turning my tank over to SPS from softies/lps. I'm replacing an 8x54w T5 fixture that I bought off eBay.

Can't decide between:

Constellation 7x54
Solar Flare 6x54

Are both of these available with tank mounting brackets? I do not have the option of hanging from the ceiling.

Thx

[Aquactinics]

Customdusty,

Either fixture would be more then enough for a 90ga SPS tank. Both the Constellation and Solar Flare fixture have optional riser brackets (legs). Both fixtures can also sit directly on your tank without you worrying about heat into your tank.

It really comes down to do you prefer the color combination that a 7 lamp fixture can provide and the 3 phase dusk/dawn effect or is a 6 lamp overdriven fixture with built-in moonlight more appealing?

If you have any other questions please feel free to contact me.

Thank you,

Tom
Aquactinics
203-234-9286

[customdusty]

How much does the overdriving of the bulbs on the Solar Flare effect their life?

I'm not basing my decision on the features so to speak, I just want the best combination for growth and color. Doing the math, I notice the Flare offers up an additional 100w over the Constellation.

Is the additional power of a significant benefit?

[customdusty]

Another question: About placing the lights directly on the tank - does one have to be worried about plastic cross braces that will be extremely close to the bulbs?

[Aquactinics]

Customdusty,

Not at all. Our fixtures run very cool. There will be no warping of the plastic braces due to our fixtures sitting directly on the tank. The fixtures are designed first and foremost to sit directly on aquariums without heating the water or damaging cross braces.

Thank you,

Tom
Aquactinics

[Aquactinics]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=14630549#post14630549 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by customdusty
How much does the overdriving of the bulbs on the Solar Flare effect their life?

I'm not basing my decision on the features so to speak, I just want the best combination for growth and color. Doing the math, I notice the Flare offers up an additional 100w over the Constellation.

Is the additional power of a significant benefit?

Overdriving T5HO lamps in the Solar Flare seems to cut the useful lifetime by roughtly 10-15% over our standard T5HO fixtures. Meaning the normal lifetime of T5HO lamps in our fixtures is around 14-18 months (depending on use and corals) and in the Solar Flare is 12-15 months, again depending on use.

The additional power of the Solar Flare is a benefit on deeper tanks. For a 90ga tank either fixture will be more then enough to keep all kinds of corals anywhere in the tank.

Thank you,

Tom
Aquactinics

[customdusty]

I appreciate the advice. Looks like I will be placing an order for the Constellation.

[customdusty]

I placed an order over the weekend for the Constellation.

I understand that these items are typically not stocked by vendors, so what should I expect in terms of delivery timing?

[Aquactinics]

Customdusty,

Typically dropship orders are shipped within 1-3 business days after we receive the order. Please check with the store you purchased the fixture from for a tracking number.

Thank you,

Tom
Aquactinics