Power Compact or MH + VHO Hoods

[gcantu]

I am looking at purchasing a new set of lights for my 65g tank. I am currently housing some corals, live rock and a couple of fish. What would you all recommend. I am looking at either purchasing a Hamilton 1-175w MH + 2-95w VHO Hood or a Hamilton 4-96w Power Compact Hood. They are both priced the same so at the moment price does not matter.

[adamRS80]

Hamilton systems are usually a little more expensive than they need to be. I'd reccomend checking out Hellolights.com. Also I'd reccomend sticking with a 250w MH over a 175. The price difference is usually really small and in the long run totally worth it. Also I'd use VHO's over PC's simply because they cost less to replace. It all depends on what you are keeping in your tank. I'd always make sure you have more than enough light because then when the SPS bug bites you won't have to upgrade your lights again. Hope this helps.

[Henry]

Also if your tank has a center brace that mh could be partially blocked and the brace could overheat if placed to close. Is this tank 36" or 48" long and 18" or 24" deep. That will also play a role in what type of lights to consider as well. Personally I would go 250watt mh and vho.

[Henry]

Josh what ballast are you running the T5's off of?

[Henry]

No problem. I'll call graybar and see what they can find for me.

[Henry]

cool thanks for the links Josh.