I know this is a saltwater forum but who else would know more about lighting than saltwater people.

Anyway, I have a freshwater tank and want to upgrade the lighting, so that I may grow some plants, etc. It's a 46 gallon bowfront (18 inches deep).

I was looking at a T5 setup at RCA but are they better at growing plants and displaying the colours of the fish than Power Compact Fluorescents? I also want to keep the cost to around 150 to 200 dollars.

Another question I have, since I've been given different answers, do PC's run hotter than T5's.

I'd really like some unbias replies from those that have used both type of lights.

Thanks