Lighting Questions

[loluckyve]

I currently am running 2 250W MH w/actinics that sit on top of my 125 gallon tank. I am looking into getting new lighting set up and am looking for recommendations/ suggestions. I am leaning toward lumen bright or lumen max pendants but am still undecieded. If I go with pendants does this give me my full spectrum needed. What about atinics? I would need two pendants, do I need two ballasts? Looking for advice of you experienced reefers lol.

Thanks

 

[Myteemouse]

O.K. this is a loaded question..
As for lights some actinic (floresent) lighting is always a good thing for a little dawn to dusk feel..
(not needed but nice for corals fish and you)
on your 120 you would need two reflectors and two bulbs and you can purchase a "DUAL MH ballast" or two singles..
I would stick with mougle bulbs.. cheaper and way more variety of bulbs to choose from when buying..
Also go with electronic ballasts. they are more efficient and burn bulbs better.. and don't get as hot..
As for the reflectors.
LUMEN BRIGHTS are gonna give you the highest par (as per Mark Levensons test) but have a bit of a spotlight effect if put to low to the water.
I have no experience with lumenmax so I couldn't tell you on that one..

 

[loluckyve]

Thanks Adam.... after seeing your lighting set up..this is all your fault you know! lol

 

[Myteemouse]

I run two x lumen brights w 250w 14K MH and 2x 54w T-5 actinics..

 

[thatguy559]

i run 2x250w 15k radium bulbs, hqi ballest and two lumenbright large reflectors on my 120 i also have the icecap 48" led actinic

 

[tat2z_21]

I also run 3x250w HQI's with 2x110w VHO's on a 72 inch tank. Looks awesome.

 

[ryansreef]

I run 2x250 hqi with M80 Ballasts and 3x54w T5 bulbs. Everything seems happy!