Lighting woes

I have come to find.. searching for lighting/lighting information is exhausting.

I am looking for the best bang for the buck for a 48" light in short.

I am the only one working in my house, fiance is in college, got a 2 year old. As most of you can relate, I am broke most of the time LOL

I am fine with t5's.. looked at a few 6x54w that I like.
If I could get a good deal on MH that would be awesome too.
Do they use more electricity?

I know you guys have been through this before, this is my first time. Any suggestions on what I should be looking for, good places to look, pros and cons of a 6x54w t5 setup? etc..

 

How big is your tank. I have a 4x54 T5 setup on my 55 and everything is doing great including a Pink Birds Nest SPS coral.

 

I say, money is tight, go with the Tek 4 lamp, and get ATI lamps, I would start with 1:1 ratio of Aquablue+ to Blue+, unless you want more power or more blue.

You could step up to the 6 lamp but keep in mind when you buy a Tek, splash shield is an extra purchase as is lamps and mounting hardware.... It can add up.

If you are REALLY strapped for cash get a Nova Extreme Pro with the SLRs and upgrade the lamps.

Good luck!! and keep working!