LED or T5HO

[Alyxx]

So it's time I upgraded the lights on my 56 gallon tank since I want to plant it. As of right now it has two T8 lights, one daylight and one designed for plants. However as this is a 24" deep tank, they don't do much. I've grown some java ferns and an onion bulb but that's it. I want to get up to medium light, and I plan on supplementing with dry ferts and liquid co2 (glut). I have found a T5HO on eBay for around $100 and a LED on amazon for around $90.

http://item.mobileweb.ebay.com/viewitem?itemId=271194772731&index=1&nav=SEARCH&nid=14180277274

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00BDDIPAU/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1369970901&sr=8-1&pi=SL75

Which do you think would be the better option? I'm leaning to the t5 so I can adjust the bulbs to suit my needs, but I'm iffy on buying a 'cheap' brand. Give me input!

 

[Scottyhorse]

First off glute is liquid carbon

Second, I think you will want a more powerful light if you want medium light. You could do a real nice low light planted tank with the Finnex, though. JMO tho. I am not an expert in lighting at all.

With the t5 light, it *might* be enough for medium light.

 

[Alyxx]

Yeah, I was just trying to clarify what I meant by liquid carbon. And I figured the finnex might be a little on the lower light side, another reason I am leaning toward the 4 bulb T5HO that is close in price.

 

[eAts]

I have the ray 2 on a 24 inch tank and love it. I'm growing medium to high light plants with glute and PPS-pro style fertilizers from GLA. I would strongly suggest it, but it's a matter of opinion.

 

[Alyxx]

I have the ray 2 on a 24 inch tank and love it. I'm growing medium to high light plants with glute and PPS-pro style fertilizers from GLA. I would strongly suggest it, but it's a matter of opinion.

Good to know! I've heard good things about the finnex but having such a deep tank I wasn't sure if it would penetrate well enough.

 

[Ryeseen]

I use the t5hos from hydroponics stores way cheeper