Lights for 30 Gallon?

[tony]

if you want to get out for less than 200 pick up a used 150-250 metal halide ballast on here, put a new bulb on it and you will be golden for $150-200

[ErikH]

Any one buy 2 T5HO 2x24 instead of one T5HO 4x24? Might save a little bit of money since you can buy them from 70-90...

Sure, for the wrong ones.

You need individual reflectors if you are going to go the T5 route. No one here is steering you wrong, you just can't cheat the system. It will save you money now to this the lights the right way the first time. Seriously.

Yes, you could probably get away with some small easy stuff growing in there, but that quickly changes into wanting more. This is by no means a hobby, and by all means an addiction. "It starts out as a weekend thing".... LOL

[UTSAltwaterEnthusiast]

Lol yeah, I have yet to really start to cycle my tank and im already seeing all the endless possibilities for saltwater. im just trying to keep myself under budget, especially when my final semester starts and i have to pay nearly 300-400 on just books.

Sure, for the wrong ones.
Yes, you could probably get away with some small easy stuff growing in there, but that quickly changes into wanting more. This is by no means a hobby, and by all means an addiction. "It starts out as a weekend thing".... LOL

I guess i should just be patient and wait for a used one go for sale on here or craigslist.

Thanks everyone for the help now i know what to get to make sure i have a great setup for the future.