Lighting for 70 gallon (suggestions)

[johnnymack2]

I'm in the process of improving my existing 70 gallon aquarium, and need some suggestions on lighting.

I currently have 7 (yes seven) regular flourescents of various colors that desprately need replacing. I am looking into going with PC's. I currently have 2 400w 6500k halides and 2 VHO actenics on my other tank (90 gallon), and have been pleased with the results. I thought it might be nice to go with the PC's on the other tank for a little difference. I've also been reading some good stuff about PC's lately.

I have a canopy built that is about 10/12 inches tall, so retrofits would be preferable. I am thinking 4-55w or 4-96w with the usual 2 white/2 blue combo. I need suggestions on cheap places, good performing systems, color suggestions (I do like having a little more blue to the color), etc... I saw one place that had a combo that included a 13w red bulb and thought that might be cool, too. I don't have a lot to spend right now (maybe $300 max.). From what I can tell, I can get the 4-55w retro for about $200-$225 a few places. ANY opinons or locations would be appreciated.

Thanks!

[Strangelove]

I have purchased several sets of pc's from ahsupply.com. Their stuff is great quality and the customer service can't be beat. I've been a planted freshwater guy and am just putting togeher my first reef. I found that I just have enough room for 2 96w actinics and 2 96w daylight bulbs in the canopy of my 90 AGA.

[PerryinCA]

If you are looking to get somethign for the tank, I would get an Icecap 660 flourescent ballast. They will increase the output of you NO flourescents by ALOT (almost as bright as a VHO)! You could run 4 daylight lamps on the icecap and use the rest for actinic. That will be a BIG improvement in lighting. Icecap is without a doubt the most efficient lighting tool on the market.... It also increases lamp life.

Here's an artilce of interest:
http://www.icecapinc.com/famaarticle.htm

-Perry