Need information on T5

Cerberusfish · Nov 19, 2019

So I'm looking to create a hybrid set up. I've got a Fluval aquasky LED that works just fine for the fish but I don't think will fully cut it with corals once I'm ready for them. I might just get a second one since I like the light, but I'm also considering doing a T5 bracket for the spectrum and intensity and using the LED for colour and asthetics. My question is: how important is the light unit that I buy? Or is it mostly just get one that can support the right sized bulb and then the bulb does all the work? I know with metal halide lights the reflector is very important.

Bpb · Nov 19, 2019

Cerberusfish said:
So I'm looking to create a hybrid set up. I've got a Fluval aquasky LED that works just fine for the fish but I don't think will fully cut it with corals once I'm ready for them. I might just get a second one since I like the light, but I'm also considering doing a T5 bracket for the spectrum and intensity and using the LED for colour and asthetics. My question is: how important is the light unit that I buy? Or is it mostly just get one that can support the right sized bulb and then the bulb does all the work? I know with metal halide lights the reflector is very important.

same goes for t5. Ballasts, cooling, and reflector quality will massively impact overall light intensity that reaches the inhabitants

Cerberusfish · Nov 19, 2019

Bpb said:
same goes for t5. Ballasts, cooling, and reflector quality will massively impact overall light intensity that reaches the inhabitants

Anything specific I should look for in the components?

Bpb · Nov 19, 2019

Active cooling (fans) and individual reflectors (not just a flat sheet under all the bulbs

Cerberusfish · Nov 23, 2019

Bpb said:
same goes for t5. Ballasts, cooling, and reflector quality will massively impact overall light intensity that reaches the inhabitants

Know anything about the Coralife aqualight 48 inch? I might be able to get a good discount (I work somewhere that sells them) but am seeing mixed reviews online. From my understanding Coralife makes some popular products but I want to make sure I'm getting something good and long lasting before I dive into it.