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yoshikuni · 02-01-2006, 09:18 PM

Well it seems like I'm veering away from the M-Tank due to unjustifiable costs. So I've decided to build a sump system how a good reef-keeper should. Going to use a 3 foot glass tank as a display, and a suitable size (obviously smaller) tank in the stand to make a DIY sump/refuge.

Anyway, I need some advice on lighting. I've been looking at a couple of different systems at our sponsors and can't decide between a Power Compact hood or a T5 hood.

Theres a 36in 2x96W PC with a total of 192W, then theres a 4x39W T5 with a total of 155W.

Now theres a question of light variety, the 2x96W PC comes with Dual Daylight (10,000K and 6700K) and dual actinic (420nm and 460nm). But the T5 fixture only comes with two 10,000K and two 460nm bulbs, I'm not sure if I can get 6700K and 420nm T5 bulbs, but then do I really need such a variety of light for reef?

So finally it comes down to this: T5 vs. PC, which system/setup will put out more lumens, watt for watt?

I'd like to hear your thoughts on this.

02-01-2006, 09:18 PM	#1 (permalink)
yoshikuni Astrea Snail Join Date: Nov 2005 Location: Toronto, Ontario Age: 24 Posts: 32 Karma: 1	T5 vs. PC Well it seems like I'm veering away from the M-Tank due to unjustifiable costs. So I've decided to build a sump system how a good reef-keeper should. Going to use a 3 foot glass tank as a display, and a suitable size (obviously smaller) tank in the stand to make a DIY sump/refuge. Anyway, I need some advice on lighting. I've been looking at a couple of different systems at our sponsors and can't decide between a Power Compact hood or a T5 hood. Theres a 36in 2x96W PC with a total of 192W, then theres a 4x39W T5 with a total of 155W. Now theres a question of light variety, the 2x96W PC comes with Dual Daylight (10,000K and 6700K) and dual actinic (420nm and 460nm). But the T5 fixture only comes with two 10,000K and two 460nm bulbs, I'm not sure if I can get 6700K and 420nm T5 bulbs, but then do I really need such a variety of light for reef? So finally it comes down to this: T5 vs. PC, which system/setup will put out more lumens, watt for watt? I'd like to hear your thoughts on this. _________ 20-50G AGA custom overflow w/ 10-20G sump/refuge in the works... (SW is EXPENSIVE!! :mad: ) 75G FW Planted Jardini (can't afford arowanas ) 5G South American Biotope I don't have anything setup yet and already I'm hooked! I feel sorry for my wallet.