[fishy]

Reefland,

You mentioned that you prefer the 250 HQI on your 75. You got me thinking. . In the long run it might be better over the 175. Can you give me a description of your set-up?

I was thinking of 2 250 W MH (10,000K) with 3 110 W VHO actinics, in an ideal setting ($$$). I want to keep the cost as low as I can for the set-up (...yeah, I know. It's a catch!). What would you recommend?

Also, the stand will be 36" high. Where would I put the ballasts?

fishy?

[Reefland]

For the little amount they cost over the 175w, I would definately go with 250w. Whether you go with Iwasaki's or 10k mogule or even HQI DE, it is a matter of personal prefernce IMO although they do have different PPFD ratings. The Iwasaki's would be cheapest in the long run due to the lower bulb cost; the HQI DE bulbs are more expensive but have a better color (personal preference) and have great comparable PPFD ratings. The Iwasaki's are a bit yellow and require actinic supplementation to be pleasing to the eye.

My tank is just now cycling but I am going with 2 250w AB 10k DE HQI bulbs in Sunlight Supply Reef Optix III pendents. 1 is powered by the SLS Blue Wave Ballast, the other is going to be powered by the IceCap 250w HQI Ballast. I don't expect there will be much visual difference in the bulbs due to different ballasts and Ocean Encounter is running a special on the IC ballasts right now for $125; $30 cheaper than the SLS ballast.

I have currently opted against any actinic tubes. I really like the color of the MH alone, however if I do decide to go with actinic later, I will probably use NO. I guess it will depend on the coral coloration once I start stocking.

Scott Z.

[Poseidon]

Hey Fishy I'm sure you've already seen it but Check out SPSphreaks posts

Mike

[Reefland]

Yeah that is an interesting post to check out for everyone owning a standard 75gal; 2-250w Iwasaki's and 2-400w Radiums! It does look great though.

Here is that post if your interested:
Before and After photos of Radiums!

Scott Z.

[fishy]

I like the 250's, but for the cost of running them, I have a hunch that the AB 150W Aquaspace light will do for what I have in mind. I'm leaning toward LPS and Softies with a few SPS. From what I've seen they are pretty amazing! Plus, it's a 75. If it was a 120+ I'd definately go with the 250's. The monthly electric bill is a factor and I think that the 150 Aquaspace light supplimented with 2 110W VHO 03's will give me the growth, plus the cool shimmering effect in a cheaper-to-run-per-month unit.

When I upgrade to the 180 in a few years than I will get a bigger lighting set up... like 3 250 HQI's in the AB Aquaspace light.... Can you tell that I'm hooked on this idea? The AB ballast and bulb is pretty impressive.

Any other suggestions or comments?

Cheers, Andrew.

[Reefland]

Your right, they are very impressive. The combination you are considering would definately give you good coloration; both coral and pleasing to your eyes I believe. I'm not sure how much more they cost but I would again consider the 250w AB fixtures; go ahead and get it now or at least seriously consider it.

Scott Z.

[fishy]

Scott,

Man, you're quick!!!!

Anyone have any pics or data on the 150 W AB Aquaspace lighting set up?

Cheers, Andrew.

[Reefland]

I don't have any pictures or data but I remember at one time Ltspd and scubadude was doing some comparisons between 150w and 250w. Maybe one of them will chime in with some insight.

Scott Z.