Nova Extreme T5 48" 8x54W model 1123

So, I'm thinking about getting myself a nice Christmas present and upgrading my lighting. Does anybody have this fixture the 8x54W Current-USA Nova Extreme model 1123 Nova Extreme T5H0 | Current What's Next?

The website says it has a German parbolic reflector but it doesn't state if it has an individual reflector for each bulb. So, I was wondering if it just has one big reflector or one contoured reflector that separates the bulbs.

I was also considering the Nova Extreme Pro 6x54W. This one has individual reflectors but no Lunar lights. I do like the Lunar lights on my current fixture.

I have a 72G bowfront. My current fixture is a 4x65W PC. Any recommendations?

 

I have the 1123. It only has one big reflector but I think it's great! All I did was put in the UVL bulbs instead of the Current USA ones.

 

I would recommend the TEK 8 x 54 if you can fork over the dough. I just got mine in the other day and they are sweet. But what ever way you go with the fixture I would go with the UVL's as JohnnyBoy stated.

 

Also if the TEK would fit on your tank.

 

I'd have a hard time paying for the Tek. What is the big difference between the UVL bulbs and the ones that come with the fixture? Will the Current bulbs be OK for the 1st year?

Also, the 6x54 Pro unit has the individual reflectors. Does that unit with the individual reflectors approach the 8x54 with the one reflector with a lower electric bill?

 

IMO the one with individual reflectors would be a better choice and the UVL bulbs are just a better quality bulb.

 

From my experience, the Current bulbs tend give a lot more nuisance algae growth. You'll need to get new bulbs in a couple of months especially the actinics. I've blown all my actinics and it's only been about 3 months.

You really can't tell how crappy the Current bulbs can be until you've tried the UVL. I saw amazing coloration and incredible growth immediately after getting the new bulbs.

On another note, I'm sure the individual reflectors are great but I have personally compared the lighting amount on the 6bulb and 8 bulb and I stil noticed my 8bulb being brighter. What do you plan on keeping? Maybe you can get away with the 6bulb unit.

 

I only have some softies and some LPS now. I really want a clam and some SPS. I love Capricornis.

How long will the UVL bulbs last?

 

They claim to have a 4500 hour lifespan. You'll be able to keep SPS with that 6bulb unit but I wouldn't with the Current bulbs.

 

Thanks, so about a year. Doesn't look like I can buy the Currents without the bulbs so I guess I'd have to pay for bulbs that I'll throw away.