Needs options for lighting on a budget

JBJ K-2 Vipers are cheap now

 

Odyssea Metal Halide System

 

Here's a thought about T5 retrofits. You must have a canopy to screw them into. You can screw them directly into the top and I suggest allowing seperation between the metal fixture and the wood top. Either use rubber gaskets similar to those used by plumbers or create a shelf DIY style by simply screwing in 1/2" runners on each side and attaching the retrofits to a piece of hardwood. The shelf can slide back and forth and make it easy when working on the reef and feeding the fish. I used 2 strips of 1x4 hardwood and air can get in to keep it cooler.

 

I would need a guide for dummies on diy canopy or pics. I do not have a canopy.

 

Option B: Get a T5 fixture or a MH fixture or a combo fixture that rests on top of the tank on 4 legs. Or pic up a fixture on craigslist or ebay to hold you over. I've always had retrofits pretty much so I don't make any claims about any of those products. All I can say is allow yourself at least 4" of space to feed and do minor work on your tank. If you gat a fixture that covers the whole top your going to have to take it off to work in the dark.:-/

 

36" x 8" Saltwater; 156 watt, CD-36004 , 4x39w T5 bulbs, SLRs
$175.99 shipped (20% off)

Aquarium Lighting for Freshwater and Reef Systems: Nova Extreme Compact SLR T-5 Fixtures

karma me up scotty!