Vicarious Cynic Posted August 30, 2010 Share Posted August 30, 2010 I started my tank with 2, 2 bulb 24" t5's. Nice start, now three months in I'm wanting to up it a bit. Looking at an AquaticLife fixture, will likely switch out the bulbs. Question now is 4 bulbs or 6. My tank is only 40 gallons (long). No immediate plans to upgrade, but those 75 gallons sure look nice. If I ever did upgrade to a 75, would a 4 bulb T5 be enough light to reach the bottom for say... a clam? Other thoughts on lighting are welcome - I like lots of info before choosing. P.S. - Paypal came through for me. I'm in the club! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
ReeFit Posted August 30, 2010 Share Posted August 30, 2010 I have both. I like the config of the 6 better. More lighting options. Usually the 6 bulb let's you run them in a bank of 4 & 2 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Algae Posted August 30, 2010 Share Posted August 30, 2010 On my 72 (which is pretty similar to a 75) I am running 6 and I would not keep a clam. In retrospect, I would prefer an 8. I would not consider a 4 light, IMHO. You will outgrow it way too soon and your color balancing of bulbs is too limited. I have heard that Saltwater Fantasy is running a blowout sale on Aquaeon tanks. Might be time to stockpile? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Michael7979 Posted August 30, 2010 Share Posted August 30, 2010 If you are interested in clams and sps. Get as much light as possible. Just my $.02 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
NoobtoSalt Posted August 30, 2010 Share Posted August 30, 2010 I know there are some on here that have clams with T-5's but it just isn't as good as halides for it. If you have the clam at the top of the tank with the 6 bulb it would probably be alright. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Algae Posted August 30, 2010 Share Posted August 30, 2010 I would look for a used Tek light. Basically bulletproof and you can get very sturdy tank mounting brackets for it. Usually runs around $275-$350 used for an 8 light. And you should be able to get most of your $ back if you sell. Sunshine also sells a plant growing version for cheaper that isn't too bad. The Aquatic Life comes with bulbs, but they are likely a compromise and the product isn't time tested. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
WAVES Posted September 8, 2010 Share Posted September 8, 2010 I would look for a used Tek light. Basically bulletproof and you can get very sturdy tank mounting brackets for it. Usually runs around $275-$350 used for an 8 light. And you should be able to get most of your $ back if you sell. Sunshine also sells a plant growing version for cheaper that isn't too bad. The Aquatic Life comes with bulbs, but they are likely a compromise and the product isn't time tested. FYI hort version of the Tek light has only 1 cord and 1 switch. Cost savings is hardly anything, and most want the control of 2 cords/switches. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
grassi Posted September 8, 2010 Share Posted September 8, 2010 I had clams with no problem in my 65g with 6 bulbs individual reflectors. More watts... more options. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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