48 inch light fixture for 55 gal reef (MH or ?)

[pjewett]

Moving my 11 month old 30 gal reef to a 48 inch long, approx 12.5 inch wide 55 gallon and only have CF's. I know I'll need better light.

Looking for a fixture that will fit and give me enough light but not cook the inhabs.

Probably need MH but will consider other..

Thanks!

 

[pecan2phat]

From you sig, if your mostly LPS, go with a T5 fixture. More then enough light for a standard 55g tank. You'll thank yourself that you didn't need a chiller due to Metal Halides.

 

[mr_X]

i use metal halides, and don't need a chiller. i would suggest 2 x 150 watt halide fixture. you will need a fixture strong enough to sustain the most light needy creature in the tank. if you have some sps, i suggest strong lighting.
that said, you can use halides or t-5's, or both.
i like the look of halides much better than t-5's and i use both over multiple tanks.
it's all personal preference.

 

[pjewett]

Any recommendations for 48 inch T5 or MH? Dr. Fosters & Smith? Aquarium Guys? LFS?

Thanks

 

[pecan2phat]

150w MH + T5:
http://www.aquacave.com/oceanlight-...-2x150w-hqibr-2x54w-t5-by-aquamedic-1112.html
http://www.aquacave.com/belize-sun-...ng-system-br-by-hamilton-technology-2555.html

T5:
http://www.premiumaquatics.com/Merc...uct_Code=AT-TX54800&Category_Code=Aquactinics

If you are using a canopy, these light fixtures will not work well since the cooling fans are on the end of the fixtures.