Light Upgrade

Discussion in 'T5 Aquarium Lighting' started by gutierrezre, Aug 19, 2009.

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  1. gutierrezre

    gutierrezre Flamingo Tongue

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    I was thinking about upgrading to this light fixture but the discription is a little confusing.. It says Lamps Sold Seperately and then in it lists one of its Features as Ultra efficient, high output T-5 lamps. So my first question is.. Are the lamps sold seperately or do they come with? and my second question is, Is this a good deal or can I find better? I definately want to stick with a 6 bulb t5 fixture with atleast two power-cords. Let me know what you think.. Thanks...

    Here is a Link TEK LIGHT T-5, 48" Light Fixture 6 x 54W lamps by Sunlight Supply* - AquaCave#

    Here are the details.
    Black Tek Light T5 fluorescent lighting system complete with two built-in Triad T5 electronic ballasts, two power-cords and two switches allowing for dawn and dusk control, individual parabolic reflectors for each bulb made from German Tek 95% reflective aluminum and I-bolts with V-Hooks to suspend the unit over the tank.
    Lamps Sold Separately.
    Fixture Dimensions: 48" L x 15" W x 2.5" H

    Features:

    • Ultra efficient, high output T-5 lamps
    • 95% reflective aluminum inserts that increase output by over 300%
    • Durable powder-coat finish
    • Fully enclosed electronic ballasts
    • 2, 4, 6, & 8 lamp configurations
    • 2 power switches on 4, 6, 8 lamp models for better lighting control
    • Cool operation and NO noise
    • Complete line of German T-5 HO lamps available
    • Easy to reach On/Off illuminated switch
    • Optional easy to use adjustable cable hanging system with 8 ft cable
    • Sleek profile only 2.5 inches high
    • Convection vent allows maximum air flow
    • 2 year manufacturer's warranty

    T5 Lamps Options:

    Option 1:
    4 x AquaSun 54W T5 Fluorescent Aquarium Lamps by UV Lighting
    2 x Super Actinic R 54W T5 Fluorescent Aquarium Lamps by UV Lighting

    Option 2:
    4 x Actinic White 54W T5 Fluorescent Aquarium Lamps by UV Lighting
    2 x Super Actinic R 54W T5 Fluorescent Aquarium Lamps by UV Lighting

    Option 3:
    2 x AquaSun 54W T5 Fluorescent Aquarium Lamps by UV Lighting
    2 x Actinic White 54W T5 Fluorescent Aquarium Lamps by UV Lighting
    2 x Super Actinic R 54W T5 Fluorescent Aquarium Lamps by UV Lighting

    Option 4:
    6 x Planta 54W T5 Fluorescent Aquarium Lamps by Aqua Medic
     
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  3. inwall75

    inwall75 Giant Squid

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    It's $470 with option 1, 2, or 3

    You won't want option 4 for a reef tank.

    Tek lights are excellent. Pricey, but excellent. One of my favorites.
     
  4. gutierrezre

    gutierrezre Flamingo Tongue

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    Thanks I just noticed the box to pick the lighting options after you said it, I am trying to stay under $400.
     
  5. oceanparadise1

    oceanparadise1 Fire Squid

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    nova extreme pros are right around 400 for 6 bulbs and they have SLRs
     
  6. Dr.Fragenstein

    Dr.Fragenstein Panda Puffer

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    You will not find a Tek 4' 6lamp for under $390.95 anywhere online!! Thats its MAP, you might find places that will ship for free or throw in lamps but the fixture alone will be no cheaper than that.
    I would take a Tek over the NEP ANYDAY!! The "supposed" SLRs on the NEP are not even worth calling them that, and the lamps are pretty poor. Opt for the Tek or build your own.

    Good luck
     
  7. oceanparadise1

    oceanparadise1 Fire Squid

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    I had a 6 lamp NEP and replaced the bulbs and it was fine, it was over my frag tank and IMO did everything i need, the tank was a tall 65 gallon and i was able to grow sps at the bottom, yes the tek light is better but if you replace the bulbs in the NEP its almost right on par imo
     
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  9. Dr.Fragenstein

    Dr.Fragenstein Panda Puffer

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    I am not saying that the NEP is garbage, I am saying if you are going to pay $400 you might as well do it on a Tek. Have you ever compared the NEP's SLRs with another "better" quality fixtures SLRs?
     
  10. oceanparadise1

    oceanparadise1 Fire Squid

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    yes i agree with you on that one dr! the NEPS arent really slrs just one big piece of metal thats bent over light. Still i like the NEP but i agree the tek is top of the line and if you can afford it do it bc you will be happy :)