PC or T5HO

Varkalis · #1 11/19/2007, 01:28 AM

What should i go with, i have $100 to spend, and i can get a 2x65 PC or a 2x24 T5 retro kit. what would be better?

some info on what i have. I have three T-8's right now i want to keep softies in the tank. i could use two of the T-8 with the retro kit. Or i could take them all off and use the PC fixture.

I am at a lose. Help please!!!!

boxerzz · #2 11/19/2007, 01:30 AM

I prefer T5s

Varkalis · #3 11/19/2007, 01:36 AM

what the difference between the NO, HO, VHO? how do you look at the wattage?

Varkalis · #4 11/19/2007, 01:46 AM

also if i went with the T5 HO, should i get either one 10000°K and one 460 nm T-5 or with two 460 nm T-5 bulbs?

I have right now are,
-power pro
-eclipse daylight
-GE salt and freshwater (i think its 9853k)

RickySan · #5 11/19/2007, 01:51 AM

IMO i would get the 10k....make sure they have individual reflectors

IPowderBlueTang · #6 11/19/2007, 02:13 AM

T5 are last longer and alot cheaper to replace then bulbs for compacts in the long run.

Varkalis · #7 11/19/2007, 11:46 PM

how do you read the wattage. i read something that said if you get a 24watt HO, then it would actually be 48 watts. is this true?

demonsp · #8 11/19/2007, 11:51 PM

PC lighting is base lighting and in high enough whatage then you can support alot of coral. T-5 lighting in individual reflectors will support more coral and works better even with loer whatts.MH lighting is the best and coral will thrive in the right water conditions.

With lighting deciding what you want from your tank first then the best your budget can afford.