WANTED - Lighting, Reflectors, Ballast(s)

[cubereefer]

I'm looking to change my lighting set-up. I've priced the following new, but would prefer to buy used if anybody has it:

400W Ballast (single or double port OK)
Reflector (for 10K halide)
(4) T-5 reflectors w/ ballast

I'd consider a 250w ballast/halide, but I'm trying to get away with one halide (400w) and 4 T-5's.

Thanks all,

J

[jojo22]

What size tank, no matter what the wattage one halide will only cover a 2 foot by 2 foot area effectively.

[cubereefer]

My tank is a cube, 30x30x30". I was thinking of going with 2 halides myself, but a "lighting specialist" told me a good reflector and one 250w or 400w along with 4 T5's would be better and give me better penetration to the 30" depth. I have an old-school ballast, dual 175w currently.

What do you think about the one halide w/ 4 T5's?

Thanks for the input/response. I really appreciate it with this being my first build and all.

J

[jojo22]

I would hit the 400 due to the depth, but that is me. Just be careful not to place any corals up top to quickly as it may burn them. With 4 t-5's you will have plenty.

[iVgOnMaD]

If you already have the dual 175w, why not use those 175w side by side, one 10k and one 20k? Im sure that will give you pretty good coverage over a 30x30 footprint

[cubereefer]

I think that is what I'm leaning towards after some thought. Also, the 175w will have less chance of burning or bleaching out the corrals. Thanks for the input. If you hear of anybody trying to off-load any 24" T5 retro kits let me know. Even with the 2 halides, I'm going to go with 4 T5's for the color and penetration to 30". Thanks again,

J

[iVgOnMaD]

EricF on our local site has a good price on lighting.

[cubereefer]

I've met Eric F. I went to his house and checked out his tanks and frag set-up. He is going to design a custom sump w/ built in refug and frag tank for me too. I'm trying to find lighting used to save $, but I may have to buy new from him in the end. Thanks,

J

[iVgOnMaD]

I still have that 400w MH if you want it, try to see if anybody has any t5 retros laying around. Pssss. I can give you the number to the guy that builds the sumps so you dont have to pay him AND pay Eric commission

LMK

[cubereefer]

Thanks for the heads up...I am interested still, but I've not been able to make it down to Chula Vista. Maybe later this week or Sat morn? Whatever works for you let me know.

Also, give me your two cents on the attached sump design. I did it myself, so any suggestions/corrections would be appreciated.

Thanks for the heads up. I will take you up on that offer.