Please recommend!

[evolim83]

Intend to get a new set of T5 for my 3 ft after my exams.

Have been doing some reading, (instead of studying for exams) and come to the following conclusions :
the set must be at least a

• High Output

• Parabolic reflectors

• E-ballasts

Please correct me if I am wrong in the any of the above and advise on how many tubes should i be looking at.


Any recommendations are welcome!

Pictures of your set-up would be very much appreciated!

Aware that Aquamarin is currently offering the ATI T5 sets, 6X39W , with buit-in ventilation.
But its off my budget.

So currently looking at their previous offer, Solite Type 4!

Please help & thanks a million!!

[grey_fox]

ATI is good, but like you, I'm not willing to impart that much money on a lighting set.

I'm currently using Solite Type 4, all I can say is that it serves its purpose well

[evolim83]

I'm currently using Solite Type 4, all I can say is that it serves its purpose well

Thanks a million!!!
That's great news!

[valice]

Solite has individual reflectors... But it is not as "parabolic" as you see in those DIY kits... But it is better than just a single piece of reflective sheet...

[grey_fox]

Yup, its not parabolic, just some highly polished reflectors.

[evolim83]

Solite has individual reflectors... But it is not as "parabolic" as you see in those DIY kits... But it is better than just a single piece of reflective sheet...

All this while, i thought it comes with parabolic reflectors.

Is it possible for the casing to accomodate parabolic reflectors?

[grey_fox]

I think there's a possiblity to have it customised to hold individual parabolic reflectors but am not sure if there is enough space or not.

The highly polished reflector isn't that bad at all, from a height of 2 feet plus, the tenellus I previously had were all reddish in color and able to penetrate all the way down.

By the way, I am not promoting Solite, just thought I'd share my view on it So far so good as mentioned previously. If you do want parabolic reflectors I suggest DIY the best.

[evolim83]

Forget to mention that i intend to have the set hung.
(Inspired by bro Nicky)
Tank height is 1.5ft.
Should be looking at total height of at least 3ft.


So looking at parabolic reflectors.
And DIY would not look neat if i hang it

[valice]

Nicky's one is based on a DIY retrofit kit, which merchants like DE Lighting sells. If you noticed, there is no casing like the Solite. So you can DIY and still be neat...

And the width of a parabolic reflector is slightly too wide to be fitted into the casing. I did contemplate with changing my reflectors in my Solite...

[evolim83]

How about Solite Type 3?
2x150MH + 2x39W HO T5!
Anyone own this set and care to share experience?

[grey_fox]

How does a Solite Type 3 look like?

[grey_fox]

OK, found it.

http://www.aquaticquotient.com/forum...ad.php?t=17592

Looks good Feel like selling off my current 2 x Type 4s for 1 of the 5 footers.

[ranmasatome]

if you're spending that kind of money might as well get the ATI. Its just a tad more.

[evolim83]

Finally got myself a Solite Type 3.
Its 2x150W MH + 2x39W HO T5.
Find that 150W is a bit high for the plants.

Question:

• What is the recommended wattage for the MH for my 3ft tank of height 1.5ft?

• Will a 70W bulb be able to fit the 150W fitting? (Is there a difference in length of the bulb for MH, like that of T5?)

• Will the 70W bulb be able to take the current from a 150W ballast? Or will it blow the moment i switch it no?