Linkable Lighting?

So, I posted a thread regarding the Odyssea Lighting on eBay and have done some research on them, and it seems they just aren't going to be the best choice for me. *So with that said, I think I might try to go in a different direction with "linkable" lighting. *Reason being, my wallet is still kind of sore from all the intial setup items of the tank, as well as I'd like to eventually have 4 white T5 bulbs, and two actinic bulbs on my tank. *

My question is, has anyone or does anyone currently use the linkable lighting systems from AquaticLife? *I was thinking I could just build on as I got them and then utilize timers for my choice of lighting. *I'd like to keep zoo's and some other soft stuff like acans, and possibly a maxima clam once I get my lighting to where I want it. *Here's the steps I'd like to take:

1st: *30" T5 Fixture (one 24" 10000K, one 24" actinic)
2nd: second T5 fixture (make one just 10000K 2 bulbs, make the other actinic 2 bulbs
3rd: *add another 2 bulb fixture with just 10000K bulbs in it - ending up with 4 10000K's and 2 actinics

This seems like the best way I can economically get the amount of lighting I want without sacrificing quality.

Does anyone see any pitfalls I might not have seen?

Here's a link:
2x24W T5 Linkable Light Fixture SW - 30" - Lighting - T-5 Fixtures at BigalsOnline

Thanks!
David

 

I don't have these lights, but the linking seems to be pointless IMO. You're not adding to the lights (like tapping the ballast). It is a whole new fixture from what I understand. and if you're going to be spending $300+ on what would be a 6-lamp fixture, just save up and buy one, with built-in timers and fans for $300, or less!

 

Question out of ignorance:

What does it matter if you're tapping a ballast or getting a whole new fixture?

 

That is kind of my question on why to get 3 2 lamp fixtures with separate ballasts. instead of 1. Tapping the ballast works only if the ballast can handle more lamps...like a 4 lamp or 6 lamp ballast. That's is what I figured they were talking about with "linking"...but instead, it seems to be a clip that holds 2 or 3 fixtures close to the other one. Why?

 

Because I want to get some good lights on the aquarium as soon as possible but can't afford exactly what I want right now. So I figured I could piece it together slowly with the same end result.

 

yes i would have to agree with Face and just save up for it. if you dont have corals than it really doesnt matter anyway and you will needs lights first before you start that very costly voyage. as 3reef says "take it slow"

 

Yeah I guess it's better to just get what I want rather than settle.