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01/04/2008, 01:02 PM | #1 |
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would a switch from 196 watt PC to 154 watt T5 really be an upgrade?
I am thinking about replacing my jbj formosa with T5's. I don't want to do it unless I really would be able to tell the difference. How much difference would I be able to see in the color/growth of my corals? Does anyone think it would be worth the expense? I am thinking about the Current USA Nova 4x39 watt fixture. Thx reefers!
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01/04/2008, 01:16 PM | #2 |
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Any T5 would be an upgrade over PC. However, I wouldn't go with a Current Nova. Although if you were absolutely sold on on the Nova, get the Nova Extreme Pro. It has individual reflectors which increase the light output.
Although I suggest something like a Tek T5. Like this for example: http://www.reefgeek.com/lighting/T5_...unlight_Supply With that set up you get to hand select the bulbs which they carry some of the best. ATI and UVI bulbs.
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Frank the Tank "What, I thought we were in the trust tree... in the nest? Are we not?" Current Tank Info: Custom Rimless 60g (30.5"x24.5"x18.5") |
01/04/2008, 01:23 PM | #3 |
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Absolutely!!!
I went from a 192w pc to 156w (4x39w) T5 and can't beleive the difference! You really do need to get something with individual reflectors to make real difference. |
01/04/2008, 01:40 PM | #4 |
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with good individual bulb reflectors T5HO has atleast twice the output as PC at the same wattage.
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01/04/2008, 01:42 PM | #5 |
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my tank is pretty narrow and all the tek and nova pro are wider than my tank, does anyone know of something else that isn't so wide?
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01/04/2008, 01:47 PM | #6 |
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check in the new Current Sundial T5HO fixture. It has the individual contoured reflectors like the extreme pro. 4 bulbs is more then enough for a 46 bowfront and will be able to support any coral you want with the right bulb combination.
http://www.current-usa.com/sundial_t5ho they sell these at drsfostersmith.com i believe |
01/04/2008, 02:12 PM | #7 |
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A 12" light fixture would fit fine on a 46 bow. I had one, uh still do sitting in the garage. The ATI T5 light fixtures are only 9.5" wide. These are some of the best you can buy!
http://www.reefgeek.com/lighting/T5_...dule_Fixtures/
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Frank the Tank "What, I thought we were in the trust tree... in the nest? Are we not?" Current Tank Info: Custom Rimless 60g (30.5"x24.5"x18.5") Last edited by FranktheTankTx; 01/04/2008 at 02:18 PM. |
01/04/2008, 02:13 PM | #8 |
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that link is no good
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01/04/2008, 02:16 PM | #9 |
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The only thing I don't like about the Current models is they come with Current T5 bulbs. This is a huge downer. ATI and UVI make some of the best T5 bulbs there are. Yes, they will make a huge difference. Plus, you can get the coloration you desire because they have a great selection.
For instance, if you liked a "Ice blue" deep ocean look you could go with 2-ATI Aqua Blue (14k) ATI Blue Plus UV Super Actinic You would be so impressed with this bulb combination compared to your PC. If you bought a Current fixture and then re bought the bulbs... you could have bought a much better light fixture like a TEK or ATI. Both will fit on your 46g.
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Frank the Tank "What, I thought we were in the trust tree... in the nest? Are we not?" Current Tank Info: Custom Rimless 60g (30.5"x24.5"x18.5") |
01/04/2008, 02:19 PM | #10 | |
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Quote:
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Frank the Tank "What, I thought we were in the trust tree... in the nest? Are we not?" Current Tank Info: Custom Rimless 60g (30.5"x24.5"x18.5") |
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01/04/2008, 03:11 PM | #11 |
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What about Catalina aquarium lighting? These are a lot less and still made in the USA and they say they have individual reflectors..........
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01/04/2008, 03:32 PM | #12 |
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I just did alot of contemplating but Finally decided to bite the bullet just yesterday bought Icecap 660, Icecap reflectors Giessman endcaps with standoffs and new bulbs!! I have PC 54W i cant wait to see the difference. The entire package cost me Aprox. $400 With everything
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