Lighting

[truck0000]

Thanks for the replies. I plan on upgrading next year when I get my income tax. Was just trying to make sure that I wouldnt kill anything b/c of lack of light. I geuss i get some zoos and see hom they do to start.

[matt]

Rob;

Another thing to consider, and this is what really put me onto MH lighting, is that it looks MUCH better IMO than florescent lighting. It's a point source, like the sun, and so you get much more realistic shadows and rippling effect. I went to the beach one sunny day in CA while on a business trip, looked at the way the sunlight interacted with the water, and shortly after ordered MH light for my tank.

[bprewit]

MH lighting does not have to cost a arm and leg to get. Cutom lights with VHO and MH are pricey but if you are the least bit handy or have a friend that is you can get say a raw coil and core 250W MH ballast for around $45-$50 at local electical suppliers, $30 for a reflector and socket from hellolights and another $65+ for a 250W bulb. 175W are a bit less expensive and 400W a bit more but dont let custom lighting prices scare you away from MH lighting as anyone with basic electical knowlege can wire these up safely and you or someone on here can build a nice hood or retrofit your existing hood. I spent way too much money upgrading lighting until I finally realized it didnt need to be that expensive or difficult. Just figured would mention this to ya

[cpreefguy]

Check ebay, you can get KILLER deals on brand new lighting.

[hobogato]

hellolights had an ARO magnetic ballast retrokit with reflector and mogul socket for $129 not to long ago. found some XM 250w 15kk bulbs on ebay for $64 with free shipping.