I'm switching to MH and could use some opinions

[virginiadiver69]

I'm trying to decide what combo I want to go with.
I know it comes down to personal preference and there's no perfect combo but some opinions will help me make a decision.
I'm looking for a compromise between good growth and color ( aren't we all? :) ). I tend to like a crisp white with only slight blue look. I'm considering VHO actinics for supplements if needed.

[Arthur1]

what dimensions are the aquarium that you are looking at? What species of corals? I'm a huge fan of 10ks with actinic supplementaion for sps and if lps and softies are involved I go to 14ks as they do them a little more of a favor as far as color goes.

[noahm]

I would lean toward 14ks, w t-5 supplementation (not necessarily actinic, just to color tweak). JMO. Lighting is VERY subjective, so definitely do some looking at real tanks. Plus, the difference of color in each K range can be significant per brand etc. etc. If you have two reflectors, you can do one of each bulb you want to try to compare, then make the switch when you are happy. Just give them a couple weeks to burn in as the color can change.

[cablebox2003]

Ive thought about Switching from T-5s to MH. But I think I will wait to do on a Frag Tank. But when it comes to Actinic supplementation I like T-5s. There smaller and you can always find part cheap on E-bay. You can find a better selection of lights and there reflectors or better than VHO. With I Icecap ballast the sky is the limit. But Its more about personal preference. Weight all you option. I always "why pay more for the same item". Check who's got the product your looking for the cheapest. Retro Fits add up quick piece by piece.

[Bonsai Boi]

crisp white with a hint of blue- 14k only
I think the perfect color is 14k with actinics
20k is going to be way too blue
10k is yellow and doesn't really look good IMO

[jayk198030]

20k Radium bulbs. love them

[jbird69]

20k Radium bulbs. love them

:thumbsup:

[swannyson7]

Be sure to see different bulbs in action. The same temperature bulb from different manufacturers can look completely different.

[BLKTANG]

I use 2 250w 20k Reflux,&2 VHO UV Super Actinics.

[sedor]

I went with 14K with no actinic simply because that is what I use. IMO if you can use actinics, go for it because you will be able to enjoy your tank for a lot longer than you can with MH only (the longest you can usually keep halides on is 8 hours). Color-wise though, with a 14 or 20K bulb you should be fairly happy with the results all by themselves. I use a Phoenix 14K and its a great crisp blue color.

[woody283]

I use 12k reeflux with pc actincs and i think the color and groth of my corals is great and the tank dont look like windex.

[virginiadiver69]

Thanks everyone one for the opinions. It really helps to see what others are using. I think I may start out with Ushio and/or Giesmann 14k then add VHO actinics if I want to later.

[virginiadiver69]

One last bump before I make my order tomorrow.

[IridescentLily]

I chose 14k with actinic supplemental.
But VHO supp, not T5. I assume everyone means VHO for supp?
The 12k (reeflux, etc) and LED are missing from the options but I'd still choose 14k w/ actinic.

Anyway all the tanks that I'm usually drawn too have either 14k with supp actinic or 20k with actinic supplement.

Good luck, let us know what you decide on. :-)

[lougotzz]

Ive seen pics of 20k radiums. Tanks look outstanding.

[tripinpn01]

Radiums. Great par. Crisp look with a hint of blue. exactly what you are looking for.

[downhillbiker]

+1 for radiums. I use 2x 400w 20k radiums on my 200g without actinics. I love them. Corals really respond to the light and physically change colors, always for the better.