Metal halides deal!!!

I think I just got the deal of the century. Was at a lfs and saw a 72 inch Hamilton Metal Halide system sitting in a back room. Asked what they wanted for it? Sold for $100!! Unit has 3X175 watt halides and 2X160 watt VHO actinics. Inlcluded were all the bulbs and the ballast. Works perfectly! Only thing that was missing is some reflectors (I think they were parting it out). The halides are worn out though and I want to replace them. Do I go with 10k or 14k? Why? Yes I have some corals....mushrooms, star polyps, and xenia. I like the looks of 14k but it seems kinda dark. Please advise. Thanks ;D

 

great score Ryland

I would probably go with 14k lamps for aesthetic reasons as the colour they give off is a little bit more towards the blue end of the spectrum and gives a nicer look to the tank IME

Steve

 

How do corals do under 14k? Ive heard they do fine but do not grow well. Where is the best place to get them???

 

Where is the best place to buy metal halide lamps? How well do corals do under 14k lamps?

 

http://www.3reef.com/forums/reef-lighting/metal-halide-q-82938-3.html

not sure on best place to get them
but the thread above is a great source of information on MH lamps

Facts of Light – Part 4: Color Temperature by Sanjay Joshi - Reefkeeping.com
this will interest you also

250Watt Bulb Comparison
play around with this, and find the lamp colour and brand you think makes the tank look the best


Steve

 

nice deal. I personally prefer the 14;s, I just like the look more, but you will get faster growth under the 10k's