Need help choosing!

[MizTanks]

I have a 26g bow front in need of a lighting system. 24" compact is what I'm looking for. Any suggestions? The biggest in watts I can find is 2x 65, would this be enough for softies and sps?

[jimsflies]

I have a buddy that has some pc retro fit kits for sale. You could make a diy and put an extra light in.

But by the same token why not go with 3-4 t5's? Less watts and more light. Plus more color options.

Oh and I would say that no, the pc's would be not bright enough for most sps (at least to attain full color and growth potential).

[Sir Patrick]

+1 to what jimsflies said.

Better off getting the best right away, otherwise you will spend money just to upgrade again very quickly and spend money twice (if not 3 times).

Lighting and skimming are 2 places you can waste alot of money by not getting the best option the first time.

a 3 or 4 bulb t5ho would be the way to go on your tank.

[MizTanks]

I have a buddy that has some pc retro fit kits for sale. You could make a diy and put an extra light in.

But by the same token why not go with 3-4 t5's? Less watts and more light. Plus more color options.

Oh and I would say that no, the pc's would be not bright enough for most sps (at least to attain full color and growth potential).

Could you please point me in the right direction Jim? 3-4t5's? I do not know how to build my own light system. I am NOT DIY inclined

[jojo22]

You can purchase t-5 kits that are as colse to plug and play as DIY gets. End caps, ballast, and bulbs, add a set of directions and it's color by number.

Honestly there are kits that my 8 year old could put together, plus you have us, so you will be fine.

[jimsflies]

You can probably use a workhorse 7 ballast to save costs. Should be less than $30 for the ballast. They are pretty easy to wire up.

[jojo22]

I forget the model, but I absolutely loved the workhorse ballast I had on my MH.

[ReeferRob]

MizT, I've owned and ran PC, T5 fixture and T5 retro. Hands down the best way to go it T5 retro. More versatility for your needs. By the way just wanted to mention I'm typing all this on my iPhone right now! Anyway, I am an extremely handy guy and have been a bike mechanic for close to ten years. With that said I was very nervous taking on the task.
But I will tell you it was the easiest Diy I've done for my tank, and maybe the most fun a d rewarding.
And Jojo is right that's what we are here for, to help each other.
I say don't be worried a bit, order up a 4 bulb Ice retro kit from DiyReef and dive in head first we will all help you throu it. If u stl feel hesitant have Deb ship it to my house PM me what you want it to look like and I will build it for you! Just pay for the materials and shipping, I'll take care of the rest!