40G Lighting Help!

[jmh11788]

I need help deciding on what lighting to use for my 40G(36x15x16). I'd like to have the ability to keep SPS and maybe some clams. I have a spare 400W M59 ballast that I purchased a few years ago for my 120G tank. Do you think this is too much light for a 16" depth tank?...and would one MH bulb be able to light an entire 36" tank? My other conisderation was going T5, most likely using a 4-6 bulb Tek Light...but the cost would be much more than my DIY MH setup. Any help is appreciated...thanks!

[yamaha racer]

well i think that the 400w is to much, and mh is a spot light so i dont know if it will light every thing, but i would do the t-5s, the 4 bulb should be enough but the 6 will give u a bigger veriaty of color

[jmh11788]

So a 4 bulb Tek Light would be enough for SPS? What do you guys think about the Nova Extreme fixtures?

[theatrus]

A 400W would be too much.

250W is a lot (run bluer bulbs)

175 pendant may be best.

[Fig]

Go with the 400. It will be ok. Heat may be an issue though. A good horizontal pendant with a fan inside would help. Just don't hang it to low to begin with. I had a 400 on my 58 and was fine. SPS were growing great. With a 400 you'll have the ability to keep anything you want plus you already have the ballast.

[jmh11788]

Well I planned to put the 400w MH fairly high above the water, to reduce heat/evaporation, and to spread the light. Can you recommend a good horizontal pendant for my setup?...although I may just end up making a DIY pendant...

[jmh11788]

Does anyone else have any comments/suggestions on my situation...?

[yamaha racer]

i would go with the t-5s they last longer and alot less wattage for close to the same result, but wouldnt go with the nova, ya its cheap but without individual reflectors than its pretty much half the light to the tank. go with no other tha tek or icecap