2 bulb MH setup for a 36" tank

[strgazr27]

I'm having a hard time finding a MH setup for a 36" tank tank. Plenty of singles. I'm working on a somewhat tight budget here so after figuring out what I would need LED's are out right now. I'm not completely sold on how well growth would be with this deep a tank (24"). I would go T5 but really love the look of MH shimmer.

Anybody know of an affordable one let me know. I know I could do a retro kit but was looking for a turn key setup at this point.

Thanks!

 

[jerl77]

I would go with t5 and a reef brite led bar the led will give you the effect you are looking for the shimmer that is

 

[armani4o3]

Good luck on the dual mh fixture. I was looking for a while and just ended up buying a new fixture I got the maristar fixture and love it well worth the money

 

[strgazr27]

Changed directions. Mods can close if they like!

Thanks!

 

[KathyC]

We generally don't close General Discussion threads, we just let them die off...

How about you tell us what the change in direction was

 

[strgazr27]

I forgot I put this in General... DUH...

Wound up going with a 250W Phoenix 14K in a Lumenarc reflector and Blue line ballast AND.... To make Jeremy happy, 2 39w T5's w Giesemann Powerchrome Pureactinics.

The heat issue is not a problem due to the tanks future location which will be easy to understand once I get the last little pieces together and start setting the darn thing up.

Did a quick mock-up and dam if this setup isn't bright

 

[Mikei70]

I forgot I put this in General... DUH...

Wound up going with a 250W Phoenix 14K in a Lumenarc reflector and Blue line ballast AND.... To make Jeremy happy, 2 39w T5's w Giesemann Powerchrome Pureactinics.

The heat issue is not a problem due to the tanks future location which will be easy to understand once I get the last little pieces together and start setting the darn thing up.

Did a quick mock-up and dam if this setup isn't bright

I had to go with two bulbs because I have a center brace on my tank. I went with 2 x 175w MHs and 2 39w T5 actinics. I don't use the T5s when the MHs are on-- only as dusk/dawn lights. If I was running 10,000ks I might, but I get enough blue with the 14K MHs.

 

[strgazr27]

But ALAS the pendant won't fit where we decided to put the tank Working on that right now

 

[Mikei70]

I built a canopy, and purchased the 2x175w retro here for $40.

I saw you were selling a 2x250w unit and you made me think about upgrading.

Then I remembered my electric bill...