[baconbits]

I want to run this by you all. I have a 70 gal. 18 by 36 by 24 deep. I am considering running (1)MH (what wattage should i use) (2)165 watt PC and (1) 38"02Actinic. Will this be sufficient for softies/LPS and maybe a few SPS? Thanks

[Poseidon]

Originally Posted by baconbits

I want to run this by you all. I have a 70 gal. 18 by 36 by 24 deep. I am considering running (1)MH (what wattage should i use) (2)165 watt PC and (1) 38"02Actinic. Will this be sufficient for softies/LPS and maybe a few SPS? Thanks

I would say get a 10K 250W MH, the spider light reflector, and use 2 VHO actinic's on a Icecap ballast. The outermost 6" on each side of your tank will be darker then the center, but still plenty bright for LPS and Softies.

[baconbits]

sorry, I actually meant 2x65 PC

[Poseidon]

That makes more sense. I think you would be better off with 4 55's then with the 2 65 watter's.... That way you can get 2 blue and 2 white. I'd still lean towards the MH if you can swing it though? Are you going to build a custom Canopy? If so then you can get a MH retro kit with a single bulb for 180-200 bux. Then add the VHO actinic for about another 100 and you would have a really nice setup for $300.00. Plus whatever you spent on the canopy of course.