Help... New to Retros

[chull13]

Hey guys and gals I am thinking about upgrading from my 12 gal Nano to a 65 gal. I am considering my cost before I do it and I need help with lighting. I have always bought the already assembled lighting units but with a really tight budget I don't feel like spending between 4 an 6 hundred. So I am leaning towards a retrofit system. Someone plesae get me on the right track here. I am thinking for sure 250 watt MH but with what other lighting suppliments? I am counting on you retrofit experts out there. I was thinking about this: http://www.hellolights.com/index.asp?PageAction=VIEWPROD&ProdID=1356">http://www.hellolights.com/index.asp?PageAction=VIEWPROD&ProdID=1356</a>

Tank Dimensions: 36x18x24

 

[cameron]

Seems reasonable. If you plan on keeping SPS the 250w should be plenty of light and installation is pretty simple for retros. You will have to deal with heat so you might want to consider some fans in the canopy as well.

 

[chull13]

Does anyone have any experience with this ARO Ballast?

 

[cameron]

ARO Ballasts are not as good as Icecaps, but they are decent ballasts. They are considered entry level for lack of a better word, but they work fine.