LED to Metal Halides?

[Thomthom329]

Many thanks, d2. Your input has been very helpful. I have a standard 90 so depth is 24". No canopy either so the lights will be suspended from the ceiling for adjustability.

 

[Thomthom329]

So I've decided to go with Halides. However, the options available are a bit overwhelming. If possible, I'd like to pick up a used unit to save a few bucks but also want an optimal setup so I don't have to buy again anytime soon. If I can't find a good deal on a lightly used setup, I'm willing to just splurge on a new setup, but going to give used a go first. Seems many are selling somewhat custom setups, mixing and matching reflectors, ballasts and bulbs. Admittedly, the options available are a bit overwhelming. Which reflector, ballast and bulbs are best for a 90G (24" depth) SPS setup? Should I hold out for a halide T5 setup or simply a couple of pendants? Is a magnetic ballast better than electronic, and if so, which one? And then there's bulbs. While I prefer 20k color, I'm looking for optimal growth so I think 14k may be better? Are certain bulbs 'better' than others?

 

[AquamanE]

MH and/or T-5 for me. SPS dominant keeper for the past 8 years (20 year total). The Cebu setup looks sweet, but i have a canopy and Lumenarc reflectors with mogul MH 250W x 2. I have 4 fans (Silenx high cfm, low decibels), and dont have to run a chiller.

Tanks does very well.