Lighting question...

[Spotted]

So what is the important part of the lighting system. I know bulbs, but how different are the fixtures? Can really good bulbs go into a cheap fixture? Other than reflector design, what's the difference?

[sudz]

It all depends on what you're looking for, and for what. Personally, I wouldn't spend much money on it unless its a planted tank.

"good" bulbs can go into a cheap fixture, if the fixture was designed for it.

What do you currently have? what are you looking to accomplish with a lighting upgrade?

[Spotted]

Sorry I am retarded. I am going reef. I want corals. I currently have a 2 bulb solarmax ho. Fisk and live rock. 1actinic and 1 10k.

[carey]

To go reef you will need at lerast a 4 bulb fixture. The reflectors are very important when picking one though, individual reflectors will give you the most out of the bulbs. I like ATI bulbs myself, great color and my corals love them. At only a couple bucks more a bulb it's a worthwhile investment.