Need help with T-5 lighting.

Discussion in 'T5 Aquarium Lighting' started by budbreak96, Mar 28, 2009.

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

  1. budbreak96

    budbreak96 Plankton

    Joined:
    Mar 28, 2009
    Messages:
    9
    I got an icecap 660 ballast, now i need endcaps, reflectors, and figure out what 4 bulb combo will be best for me. Im going to overdrive 4 t 5's, I think ill pretty much be able to keep anything with that lighting. Now for bulbs, what 4 would you all recomend for the best growth/pop color?
    Thanks Joe
     
  2. Click Here!

  3. Bogie

    Bogie Snowflake Eel

    Joined:
    Feb 7, 2008
    Messages:
    2,350
    Location:
    CT
    I like the way the 2 x UVL super actinics and 2x UVL actinic white bulbs look. They really make the fluorescent greens come out and promote growth.
     
  4. lightningfront

    lightningfront Spaghetti Worm

    Joined:
    Dec 22, 2008
    Messages:
    181
    Location:
    Cincinnati, Oh
    IMO For a 4 bulb set-up go with:

    ATI Blue +
    GE 6500K
    ATI Blue +
    ATI Aquablue

    Or if you want to drop the yellow out all together go with 2 aquablue and 2 blue+

    According to PAR test done on T5 bulbs the ATI Aquablue and Blue + score the highest PAR ratings in their colors and I believe the Aquablue is highest PAR overall.
     
  5. papareef

    papareef Feather Duster

    Joined:
    Mar 20, 2008
    Messages:
    242
    Location:
    canada
    Yup go with your next choice,that will be perfect.I was running an equal mix of 4 ati aqua blue specials,with 4 ati blue plus.The color was the most beautiful blue, but not too much.And my acropras flouished in enough light,for great growth.But now canadian have lost all supply of those brand.None to be had anywhere.I put in 2 6500 and the film algae bloom,convinced me to pull them.I use aquascience bulbs,not by choice.:(
     
  6. budbreak96

    budbreak96 Plankton

    Joined:
    Mar 28, 2009
    Messages:
    9
    2 ati blue plus and 2 ate aqua blue is it then.
    Thanks everyone for all the help and ill get some pictures up as soon as i get them.
    With these i should be good for sps and claims?