Ebay t5ho

I am thinking about getting the 6 bulb 30" version of this. 24'' Aquarium Light T5 HO 4X 24 + bulbs Reef NEW+ bulbs - eBay (item 270360582182 end time Nov-13-09 11:03:40 PST)
What does everybody think? they want 250 shipped for the 30" 6 bulb version. Junk or a good buy? They kinda look like homemade geisman to me.

 

At first glance it doesn't look like a bad deal, but if it were me, I'd pass it up. I say this because it gives no details regarding bulb brand, ballast make; or whether or not it contains a splash shield or is actively cooled (fans). My guess is the bulbs and ballast are bargain basement brand (soon to require replacement) and it doesn't have a splash shield or fans.

I'd think I could do better spending another hundred bucks and getting stuff of known quality. Not to say this vendor isn't selling quality stuff, but could you offer free shipping on a high quality lighting fixture for $200 out the door? I couldn't.

Most new reefers on a budget don't want to be told to steer clear of bargains regarding lights or skimmers; but if I can guarantee you one thing--you'll be buying again if you buy cheap the first go 'round.

Good luck.

 

My main problem is I have a deep tank that is 30" long. I don't want to shell out the money for MH HQI or the extra electricity it will cost to run.

The only 6 bulb systems I can find are 24" or 36" or longer. Not a single 30". I don't have the time to make a hood and do a retrofit kit.

If anyone has suggestions please make em.

 

Has anyone ever ordered from marineandreef.com?
They have this. Current USA Nova SunDial T5 Aquarium Lighting Fixture for 209.99

i could also link 3 of these togethor:
http://www.marineandreef.com/AquaticLife_30_inch_T5_HO_Lamp_Fixture_Marine_p/ral20139.htm

Just asked the seller what the brand of the bulbs were as well as the manufacturer and model # of the ballast.