Which PC model for large tank?

[Fishnut]

In the next 6-8 months I want to upgrade from my 55g planted tank to either a 75g, 90g or 120g so I'm trying to plan what light I should purchase for the new tank.

The 2 PC models I am considering are:
Current USA Orbit http://www.bigalsonline.com/catalog/product.xml?product_id=29625;category_id=1875;pcid1=1843;pcid2=
Current USA Satellite http://www.bigalsonline.com/catalog/product.xml?product_id=29615;category_id=1875;pcid1=1843;pcid2=

I'd replace the actinic lamps with 6700K lamps and try to sell the actinics. The main difference I can see in the two models that might affect a planted tank is that one sits up a few inches off the tank (orbit) & the other rests directly on the tank frame (satellite). Is one way better than the other for planted tanks?

I haven't yet decided for sure on the 4x65w, 2 x 130w or 4 x 96w. It will depend somewhat on the size tank I end up with. I probably won't get the 2x130 simply because it might be hard to find the bulbs I'd need but I like that its slim. I do plan to invest in a better regulated C02 system than my current DIY pop bottle method when I move up to a larger tank.

Fishnut

 

[vertex]

I'd consider some of the new T5 fixtures as well. They are more cost effective in the long run for operating efficiency and bulb costs than PC. Tek Lights are excellent from what I've read and the inital costs are not a lot more than PC lighting.

 

[Fishnut]

Where can I look to see what those are?

Fishnut

 

[betowess]

I'm in the same boat ... as I am contemplating a 90 or a 120 or a 110 tall etc. and having fun researching lights. Unfortunately with a tall aquarium, I may need to go metal halide and I found a pair of 150 watt PFO brand pendants at marine depot. http://www.marinedepot.com/aquarium_lighting_metal_halide_pfo.asp?CartId= Shipped with 65k lamps for about $540.

I would rather have 350 watts (two 175 watt MH lamps) but am having difficulty locating a 65K lamp.

You can look at the Sunlight Supply Tek lights at: http://www.drsfostersmith.com/product/prod_display.cfm?pcatid=9866&ref=3055&subref=AV&N=2004+113175 with the 6k lamps as you are aware. But the replacement tubes are not any cheaper than PC Tubes so I don't see any advantage here, myself.

Another great PC light that I am considering is the JBJ Formosa 4x65 watt available at Aqua botanic and Aquarium supply store formerly known as aquatic-store.com. They are both good companies and this is a great light. http://www.aquabotanic.com/abstore/index.html http://www.aquatic-store.com/

The only PC light that is cheaper and possibly better than any others is AH Supply's brite light kit which you put together in a box you build unless you want to buy one of their nice $48.00 finished wood enclosures. It only takes an hour or two to put one of these together and I recommend this product.
http://www.ahsupply.com/36-55w.htm

These are probably some of the most popular light kits used today by U.S. freshwater planted tank hobbiests. I own three of them and they work great. The replacement 55 watt lamps are only $19.00 If you build a box you can put together 220 watts with lamps for around $200.

Lastly, you could check out Big Als and get a Coralife 260 watt freshwater PC. But they aren't nearly as bright as AH Supply's kit because of AH Supply's superior reflector design - which is about 60% brighter. Another good source of info is Rex Grigg whose email is in the FAQ sticky at the top of this forum. Rex knows his stuff and will be glad to help. Goodluck and HTH. Bob

 

[jibboo]

I currently use the smaller version of the satellite on my 55g fw:

http://www.bigalsonline.com/catalog/product.xml?product_id=29605;category_id=1875;pcid1=1843;pcid2=

48" - 2 x 65watt

I did replace the sunpaq (10k + actinic) with the 6700k bulbs. My tank went from blue to yellow (LOL). Anyways, you can buy "legs" for the satellite to set it up a few inches like the orbit if you like. I think the only difference I can tell between the orbit & the satellite series, is the orbits have fans to cool the bulbs down. Personally, I don't know how necessary that is ... but for the price difference, I'd just pay the $5 and get the leg stands for the satellite. oh and btw ... the lunar lights are pretty cool when the room is dark !!!.

 

[travis simonson]

I've got two of the Orbit 2x96w fixtures over my 125G and love them. The 3' CF bulb size is great because it's very common, although I wish they had the GE 9325K bulbs in that size :? I also have a single AHSupply DIY (1x96w) kit over my 30G and have to admit that, for the money, it outshines the Orbit fixtures. I guess it all depends on whether you like to build things yourself or not. You can't go wrong with either one IMHO

 

[bink0404]

If you are looking for MH at 5500 K try aquariumlight.com. They have complete retro fit kits for 175W 5500 K bulbs for $112. I haven't ordered from them but I have heard from people who have. No complaints.

 

[BASSNMAN]

I would go with the 4x96. Most of these fixtures have 2 switches so you can run lower light if necessary , like on your 55. When you get your bigger tank, you can adjust the light by changing 96 w bulbs for 65 or smaller. Its easy to go down, hard to go up.