switching lights

[ms_ k]

I currently have an 8x96 watt PC fixture. That's over 750 watts. I'm looking into getting a MH/PC combo light, but it will only have around 550 watts. I know that MH penetrate the water column better. Will the new fixture with 550 watts be as good or better than 750 watts of PC lighting? I know this is a matter of opinion mingled with fact and technical aspects, so any thoughts are appreciated.

 

[kzoo]

Yes, p/c lights loose there punch very quick and the par that they put out at the lower depths of your tank are close to nothing - thats why most people call them no lights. What set-up are you looking at? 250,400watt?

 

[cameron]

MH lights and T5s produce more usable PAR because of the reflectors they use. The same wattage PC lights won't produce nearly as much PAR near the surface as a good MH or T5 setup and MHs gain significantly more by comparison the further down the water you go.

You won't be disappointed.

 

[ms_ k]

I'm looking at a 3x150 fixture with PCs. I don't have SPS in my tank, so I thought the 150s would be a better transition than more intense lights.

 

[cameron]

I would try and get the 175w fixture. Iwaski makes a bulb for the 175w that can actually achieve PAR ratings similar to some 250w bulbs. If you go with the 175w, you have more options down the road.

 

[jefft]

Cameron;42809 wrote: I would try and get the 175w fixture. Iwaski makes a bulb for the 175w that can actually achieve PAR ratings similar to some 250w bulbs. If you go with the 175w, you have more options down the road.

Cam, I have a 175w MH now and nowhere near needing a new bulb yet, but where is a good place to order replacement bulbs. I currently have a 15k and was kinda wondering also what a 10k or 20k would look like in my tank (30 gal). Jeff

 

[cameron]

I have used all of the following:

http://www.aquabuys.com">www.aquabuys.com</a> - local and good prices.

[IMG]http://www.reefgeek.com">www.reefgeek.com</a> - check out the specials. Sometimes you can get a REALLY good price

[IMG]http://www.hellolights.com">www.hellolights.com</a> - they carry just about every kind of bulb

You can also try ebay and find some really good deals, but I usually spend the extra couple bucks and buy from one of the above.

If you have SPS, go with that Iwasaki bulb. Mike turned me onto the data on those bulbs and all my reading from other posts has me convinced these things throw monster PAR for their wattage.