T5 Bulbs- Options

[carey]

I'm really wanting to replace the 12 bulbs in my T5 unit and am shopping around prices.

I plan on 6 12k bulbs and 6 blue (460). I like the blue hue very much.

My first choice of course being the ATI bulbs at about $21 each.

I also came across Wavepoint bulbs, they are much much cheaper ($13)and have the same color spectrum that I'm looking for with the ATI's.

Also saw regular old standard replacement bulbs from current, the maker of the light. ($13)

Which ones should I go with in everyone's opinion? I think my corals are suffering under the old bulbs I have now, they dont' seem to be as vibrant and aren't growing as much as when I had them under new bulbs.

 

[carey]

No one has any experience with any of these bulbs?

Any input would be good input

 

[HUKIT]

I personally don't have any experience but my brother uses Wavepoint in his 6 bulb T5 fixture and absolutely loves them, he's running three different waves in his saltwater set up.

 

[carey]

Thanks, just what i wanted to hear. Someone who actually knows if they are good not. I may give them a try.

 

[mfdrookie516]

I use Giesemanns and love them. I have also read nothing but wonderful things about them. I have also heard great things about ATI's and Wavepoints, though I have no firsthand experience with them. I'd say any of those 3 brands would give you good quality, just don't go with some cheap bulbs... as they say, you get what you pay for

 

[carey]

Yep, exactly. I have the ATI's running in my 48" fixture and love them. Just kinda am on a budget right now so the wavepoints were attractive.

 

[Buffy]

Sorry, can't help lol. How long did the ones that came with your Current last?

 

[carey]

i bought the unit used and its been about a year. I can tell that they need to be changed, the light isnt near as crisp as it is on my 55g

 

[Gti_Leo]

carey i'd stick with the ATIs they are proven lamps. i would go with those or KZ, but KZ are a little more pricey

T5 lamp PAR readings - Reef Central Online Community

page 32 at the bottom is PAR valuse for the KZ lamps