T5 ?

[SleepyMike]

What is the difference between 420nm and 460 nm. What is the best kind of t5 for a reef and cheapest place to get them?

[Johnny C]

420nm is a purple spectrum as where 460nm is blue. ReefGeek seems to be the most popular place to buy T5 equipment, but there are lots of reliable online vendors to buy from (i.e. Premium Aquatics, Foster & Smith).

What are you looking to house? What is your budget? We need more info! :)

[thebanker]

420nm is a phosphor that peaks at the 420nm range of the spectrum. It appears violet to the eye and is often called actinic.

460nm peaks at the 460nm range of the spectrum and appears a very strong blue color. It can be called 20000k (blue life), deep water, and even actinic, depending on the manufacturer.

The best T5 for a reef is subjective. Do some shopping within your price range and come back with some options. Look on reefgeek.com or marinedepot.com

[dj9264]

What is the difference between 420nm and 460 nm. What is the best kind of t5 for a reef and cheapest place to get them?

40 nm.

I like the ATI bulbs.

aquariumspecialty.com has some good sale prices.

[thebanker]

40 nm. smart@ss

[SleepyMike]

I have a mixed reef tank. My light holds four 54 watt t5 bulbs. Is it better to mix different bulbs or put all the same?

[dj9264]

I have a mixed reef tank. My light holds four 54 watt t5 bulbs. Is it better to mix different bulbs or put all the same?

Most are using a mix of two or three different bulbs but you don't have to if you like how it looks with a single bulb.