Help! Lighting Upgrade

[tomas]

I currently have 55 gal FOWLR tank for a liitle over a year now. Its running only 1 40w VHO since my PC's went out, and I've been planning on an upgrade pretty soon. Don't really know what to get. MH's seem so expensive, and I've heard good things about VHO's and T5's . The tank is a 55 gallon tall, 48X13X20. I've heard that deeper tanks need stronger lighting. Currently, theres some fish and a RBTA in it. I may plan on buying a couple corals but not sure at this point. Can anyone recommend something for somebody on a budget? I also need help on wattage, size, and number of bulbs.

I'm looking for a setup that will fit in my black laminated canopy. Any suggestions or recommendations would be greatly appreciated.


http://reefcentral.com/gallery/data/500/16873Hood.JPG

[Entropy]

Budget you say?

2x110w VHO with either a Workhorse 7 ballast (www.reefgeek.com) or a ARO ballast (www.hellolights.com), two URI bulbs (built in reflector), sockets, and standoffs. $100+ shipping from hellolights. Or you could run two of these setups (4x110w) for $200 plus shipping. :D

[bugsy714]

not too shabby!

I'd go with a t5 new wave by sunlight supply for $200, they are really nice

or you could get dual 150w halides for that shimmering look everyone loves

[rxdi]

I'm upgrading my fathers tank this weekend, from 2x 175watt mh to 2x 250 watt mh. If your interested he'sell the old set for $100. They include a custom sea life dual 175 ballest all the wireing and sockets its about 2 years old. He also has a set of 10k bulbs ( I think corallife look more like to 20k's to me) that he used for 3 or 4 months. I have a set of hamilton 10ks I used 8 to 9 months and I think I also have a 48" reflector that I'll throw in with it.

[tomas]

I think I'm going to go with the 2X110 VHO setup..

Thx