decent lighting. under $200. for mixed reef.

Discussion in 'Reef Lighting' started by banthonyb71, Feb 23, 2010.

to remove this notice and enjoy 3reef content with less ads. 3reef membership is free.

  1. banthonyb71

    banthonyb71 Millepora

    Joined:
    Feb 16, 2010
    Messages:
    947
    I have done some homework on lighting but still need non-technical info. Whats the best brand fixures, bulbs?I would like to stay under $200 and would eventually hope to add sps. My tank is 46g bow. 18" deep.
     
  2. Click Here!

  3. patrick824

    patrick824 Montipora Digitata

    Joined:
    Dec 29, 2008
    Messages:
    1,065
    Location:
    Bay Area, California
    no offense, but everyone here is gonna laugh. 200 is extremely cheap considering you want SPS. your best bet is craigslist otherwise plan on throwing down 300-400 for decent lighting. (T5 retro/ MH) but hey.. prove me wrong!! haha good luck to ya
     
  4. loneracer05

    loneracer05 Clown Trigger

    Joined:
    Jun 2, 2009
    Messages:
    2,019
    Location:
    long island ny
    you might b able to do a retro...not sure but 200 is cheap for new lighting...you may be able to diy something or look at used stuff
     
  5. banthonyb71

    banthonyb71 Millepora

    Joined:
    Feb 16, 2010
    Messages:
    947
    Out of your whole paragraph, all I got was that cause not sure why people would laugh at somone with 2 weeks experience.

    This is an example of what I'm looking for. Nova Extreme Compact SLR T-5 Fixtures

    I know $200 isnt alot to spend but I know I've seen lighting out there. Just trying to get input on what may be worth trying.
     
  6. bluetang08

    bluetang08 Purple Spiny Lobster

    Joined:
    Feb 1, 2009
    Messages:
    490
    The Nova Extremes aren't great but a 4 bulb fixture will work fine. They will do better if you upgrade the 2 10k bulbs to ATI blue+
     
  7. DaDaAtlanta

    DaDaAtlanta Feather Star

    Joined:
    Jan 24, 2009
    Messages:
    782
    Location:
    Atlanta/Chicago
    IMO your best bet will be craigslist, just be patient, key to this hobby, and im sure you will come across as awesome deal. If you are looking to buy new, your not gonna find anything GOOD for 200 bucks. You could also check the for sale section here on 3reef and make a deal with somebody or often some fish stores have used stuff. I got my set of 2 175watt metal halide pendants w/ 2 pfo ballasts and bulbs (which I had to change to my liking, another 150 bucks or so) for $300 off of CL. Its a good idea to go ahead and get the lights for sps now instead of upgrading in the future but take it slow, start w/ the softies and good luck with the lights, all the best
     
  8. Click Here!

  9. banthonyb71

    banthonyb71 Millepora

    Joined:
    Feb 16, 2010
    Messages:
    947
    If I where to go over $200, what fixtures are good? I wish I had $300-$500 to spend but even if I had the funds, it still would be hard for me to see dishing out that kinda money on a 46g beginner tank.
     
  10. Nightstick

    Nightstick Purple Spiny Lobster

    Joined:
    Apr 1, 2009
    Messages:
    493
    Location:
    South Elgin,IL
    I found a 48" odeyessa fixture on ebay for $350 it has halides, actinics and moonlights but I got lucky!
     
  11. Dr. Reefenstein

    Dr. Reefenstein Fire Shrimp

    Joined:
    Feb 15, 2010
    Messages:
    344
    Location:
    At the tip
    I would say T5, you might be able to find a retro-kit for around $200 w/o bulbs... Don't cut corners on the bulbs though, spend the money it will be worth it.
     
  12. banthonyb71

    banthonyb71 Millepora

    Joined:
    Feb 16, 2010
    Messages:
    947

    Like this one for $329?

    Odyssea Metal Halide System