Lights for a 26G bow

[aaron]

Hey I am looking for some advice on lighting for a 26g bowfront i am currently planning. Like everyone else, this hobby has pushed my wallet to the limit and i am looking to get out of this as cheaply as possible.
I have narrowed it down to three possibilities and would welcome any comments or advice from anyone.
1. 150W MH + 2x18W CF's by Odyssea ($150)
http://www.aquatraders.com/index.asp?PageAction=VIEWPROD&ProdID=12
2. Aqualight Advance 150W MH ($239)
http://www.hellolights.com/aqadhatamo.html
3. DIY 175w MH with Aro elec. ballast + 1x55w CF ($185)
As far as what I want to keep in the tank, I really want to be able to keep the widest possible variety of things like softies, LPS, some easier SPS like caps, an anemone and maybe a clam.

[ April 06, 2005, 09:32 AM: Message edited by: aaron ]

 

[Deanos]

My 26BF is 24" deep Aaron, and I'm not sure 150w will reach deep enough into the tank unless you put the SPS, clam & anemone up near the top. Look for at least 250W.

Dean

 

[aaron]

Hey deanos, the 26gal AGA bowfront is listed on the web sight as 20" deep, with a couple of inches of sand there would be more like 18" of water between the light and the bottom of the tank. I was a little concered about heat build up as once i buy these lights there definitely wont be any money left for a chiller.
Also the other concern is light spill from the tank as its in my living room and i cant have comething burning like a supernova in the corner.
The other question I forgot in the original post was; Is there any difference between single and double ended fixtures that would sway you one way or the other?

 

[nanoreefer22]

I think that double ended bulbs burn brighter than the single ended. I read somewhere that a 150 double ended puts out more light than a 175 watt SE.

 

[Deanos]

Oops! Sorry Aaron, I thought it was 24"; I'll measure mine again tonight.

A 150w DE would definitely be a better choice than SE like nanoreefer said.

 

[aaron]

Thats so wierd about double ended bulbs being brighter considering how much bigger a 175W SE is in comparison.
So i guess size really isnt everything.....