Good Fixture?

I have a Coralife fixture. Decent, but not cheap... not the best either.

Just some thoughts.

I have 2x250w MH w/ 2x96w PC. Power compacts are not the end of the world. T5s are better, but on a 48" fixture you will get 2x54w probably. Pool or pond.

MHs do not equal chiller. I took mine of my 90g.... don't need it.

Price is going to determine reflectors.... does not matter to save a bunch of money and get crappy reflectors and loose some of that high power light you bought and are paying to run.

2x250w MH is a lot of light..... nothing is written that you have to run them 12 hours a day. I run mine for 6 hours. Things are growing fine.

T5 or MH is a whole other discussion. I like my MH, and yes T5 is good.

 

Marineandreef have some great deals on some hamilton fixtures got mine at a pretty good price.

 

If you're flexible on MH, I'd spend the same $$ on a good T5 fixture (or retro kit), you'll be able to keep softies, LPS, most SPS and clams...using less watts, without the added heat of MH and need of a chiller, and your bulbs will last longer...if you could live without the so-call "shimmering effect" of MH, check out the TEK T5 or Aquactinics constellation fixtures, or for a little more $$ the ATI Power module. Or for a little less $$ checkout the NOVA Extreme PRO fixture.