t5 lighting

[bake420]

i am thinking of going with t5 lighting.
is this really better than power compact????
MH is a bit pricy right now
my choices range from 2x39 to 8x39...how much is enuf?$$$!!!???
i want soft and lps, and a few fish (workers)
tank is 50 gal 36x18widex19tall

suggestions commments?
thanks

[johnny gray]

i beleve you want 3 to 5 watts per gallon. i know you can get a 250 de mh with 2/4 atinicks for around $300

[Reefland]

Hi bake420,

Watts per gallon is a poor measurement of light intensity. Adding 10-40w flourescent bulbs is not the same as a 400w Metal Halide bulb, even though both are 400 watts.

I would try to get 4-5 bulbs over your tank.

[reefrash]

With a GOOD reflector you can get by with 4 bulbs, do a little research you'll be surprised at the efficiency of the T-5.

[DapperDan]

T5s with reflectors are almost as bright as 250 MH, and you'll get better coverage if you have a 4ft long tank.

DD