Eny Meny Miny Mo

OK, So I have it narrowed down to one of these three , I think..
Can anyone tell me what they would choose for a lighting upgrade.

I am mostly FOWLR for now but want to get some corals , anemones and alike. Start to build th reef so I want to ensure I have good lighting.

My tank is
Tank Size 46 Gallon bow Front, 36" w x 19" high

T5 - 234w (Best Watt for tank 5wx46g)
Current USA Nova Extreme Pro T5HO - 10K / 460nm Actinics Light Fixtures


MH / T5 - 380w (Just what I was looking for but pricy, not too too much wattage)
Amazon.com: Current USA 36 inch Outer Orbit with T5s & 150W HQI Bulbs: Kitchen & Dining

MH / CF - 442w (Not sure if i like the center MH instead of the 2, and high wattage)
36" 442W Metal Halide System (Electronic Version) - 504013

Also, is there a big difference between the 10k and 14k, besides 4k that is. I was reading and the 14k seemes to be the 10k and 20k lighting spectrum so it sounds better.

Any help with my decision would be great..

\Cheers

 

I like the last one, but dont get from Aquatraders, try this guy hombby.
I prefer the 14k bulbs, they're not to white or blue, right in the middle.

 

I like the second one. If you have a center brace on your tank, then I would not suggest a single halide. I think two halides and T5's give you the best of both worlds.

 

Yes, Center brace. Would likley block light.
Is there a rule of thumb for too much light ? I know 5w x gallons, but what is too much ?

 

Your right, I didnt realize that light fixture only had one bulb.

 

Really the 2 halides would give plenty without any T5's, you could save some money getting a fixture without the t5's.. Yes there is a such thing as too much light. But some one with more experience will have to explain to you some guidelines. I'm not sure how much is too much.

 

Here is one without the T5's. 36 inch metal halide aquarium lighting fixtures But keep in mind, halides are going to make some heat. a 45 gallon tank is going to feel it.

 

check out this one its kinda what your looking for i think, the 36 inch is out of stock right now, but you may could wait a day or two, it was the cheapest best deal i could find

https://www.fish.com/itemdy00.asp?T1=720018 036

 

Good call! That one has the Actinics, and its less money! Karma

 

The general rule of thumb is 4-5w per gal for lps and 7-9w per gal for sps. You have to take into consideration the depth of a tank also. MH; 150w is for tanks up to 20" H, 250w is for 24"H and 400w is for 25" and higher. Luna