75g Lighting confusion

So instead of posting on someone else's thread I'm starting my own

I'm all confused now whether to get 2x250 MH or to get a 8x54 Tek T5 fixture for my new 75G. The guys I talk to at my LFS don't seem to have any issues with temperature using MH lighting.

I want to be able to keep a clam happy, as I really enjoy the T. Maxima, would like to have one on my sand bed. I also want to be able to pretty much keep any coral thriving that I want to add, without worry of my lighting being inadequate.

Should I do 2X250 MH, or a 8x54W Tek fixture? If I buy the Tek fixture, what would be a good selection of bulbs to fill it out (and also a good place to buy them with good prices)?

Appreciate any advice as always

 

I am sure you would be good with the TEL 8 x 54 with the uvl bulbe but you would also be good with the MH. I went with the TEKS. Will the 8 x 54 fit on the 75?

 

Yup, they're 48" - I'd probably suspend them. What bulb selection did you use?

 

He was talking about the width. 75 gal tank is 18 inches wide and the Tek 8 bulb is 19 inches wide. So one inch wider than the tank.

 

Eh. Crap, can't win. Thx for pointing that out. I'm at a loss then for lighting.

Unless of course all bulbs are still positioned over the tank and it's just the framing over the sides?

 

You should look at Current USA Nova Extreme Pro 6x54 fixtures. It's a very good light. Some say better than the Tek's.

 

You don't need to toss the idea. I even have a canopy on mine and I am looking at the TEK 8x54W. I have a 90g. I am going to let the extra inch hang off the back. It does not include any lights....it's just framing. No biggie.

Also, reefgeek.com will get you the 8x54W TEK with lights (UVL) and do free shipping I believe. You would have to purchase the legs or hanging apparatus.

 

Awesome - I was just reading through your lighting thread and was going to as you if you ever got the Tek fixture. If it's just framing I think I may consider these over MH. Looks like I wouldn't have to change the bulbs out as often as MH and the heat issue would be reduced greatly. I'm not particularly happy with the Nova Extremes I have currently but that's with Current's crappy bulbs and without individual reflectors. Hrrm.

 

By all means if you want a canopy then get the Tek. Good light but if you want to go with T5's I would consider the Nova Pro.

 

That's a pretty good price - Are you sure it comes with UVL bulbs? It doesn't seem to mention brand anywhere.

Not a fan of canopies at all. You don't need a canopy for these though.