[skipb]

I'm looking to upgrade my lighting system for my new 265 gal reef tank. I'm not a DYI person, so I've been contemplating a CSL or Hamilton MH system. I'm interested in using the 250watt Ushio Mogle bulbs. However I've been reading allot about the double ended HQI bulbs. Surfing the net, I ran into the Reef Fanatic site which contained information on the Aqualine Spaclight HQI fixtures ... Any experiences or opinions on these??

Thanks,

Skip

[PerryinCA]

Not a bad system, in fact rather good. They only some in 6' lengths at the longest, how long is your tank? They are high quality, and generally those that buy them are satisfied. The only real drawback is that they don't have a mogul version (would be needed for 400w), and they are somewhat pricey compared to the DIY alternative.

Here is a link to champions page with the systems. Most people opt for the MH/PC combo.

Champion AB HQI fixture page

if you have more specific questions, feel free to ask away.

[skipb]

Hi Perry,

Thanks for the information... My tank is 84" long, but has an internal overflow that is on the end, so a 6" fixture is good.

Is there a fan built into the system ?? More than 1 ballast for a dawn to dusk effect?? Are the Ballast/Ballasts remote or built in ... Can't tell from the Website..

Thanks again,

Skip

[PerryinCA]

The fixtures use what is called a linear magnetic ballast. It is similar to the standard coil/cap magnetics used in traditional ballasts, but is a longer and slimmer version (more expensive as well).

The PC's also run on a magnetic ballast. I believe there are two seperate plugs, one for the MH, one for the PC...that would give the ability to run them on different timers, for a dawn/dusk effect.

They don't have a fan built in, but there also isn't a need for one.

HTH

-Perry