T8 or T5

[Second Hand Pat]

Which one for a 100 gallon (60x17x22) planted low-tech/low-light.

Two 48" T8 fixtures running two 32W bulbs each yielding 128W total or WavePoint 4 Lamp T5 HO Systems 48" fixture with four 54W bulbs giving 216W total. The T5 fixture is $9 more.

...or something different :)

[baley]

If you have a planted tank, I would go for the T5. They last a long time and put out a lot of light. If your tank is not planted, I would just go with the T8. They dont last as long, but the bulbs are alot less expensive.

[Offpath]

4x T5HO is going to much higher than low light. In fact, unless you raise the lights about a foot above the tank, you'll be running higher than what most people consider to be high light. I'd really recommend a 2-bulb T5HO fixture if you want to go that route.

[Second Hand Pat]

Reading some of the other lighting threads made me realize that a two light 48 in (108W) T5 fixture would be a better choice. Thanks.

[kyubi]

oh dont forget the bills for the t5 electrics bills....

[Second Hand Pat]

oh dont forget the bills for the t5 electrics bills....

Oh I know, I run MH over the reef tank.

[Second Hand Pat]

Thanks to everyone for their inputs. Last night I found a great price on a wavepoint two light 48 in (108W) T5 fixture and get it. Now I have some spending room for some LEDs. :D