affordable lighting

[lockkeeper69]

I have had my 120 gal set up and running since March of 09. I am anxious to add corals but need to upgrade my lighting. I only have one strip light now. Fish and live rock are doing great.

My question is what is an affordable way to upgrade my lighting? I can not afford the $600 plus to add t5 with Halite. I don't have a hood only glass top. Is it possible to build a light system more affordable?

Any suggestions or insight would be greatly appreciated.

 

[dcantucson]

I don't know what length you need but.... Try these folks:

http://shop.aquatraders.com/Metal-Halide-System-s/10.htm

Their prices are about 1/3 of the cost of the other suppliers.

 

[lockkeeper69]

Sorry. Length is 4 ft. It is a standard 120 gal. 4'X2'X2'.

I did some reading on the fixtures you suggested. Sounds like they have balast issues? Is is easy to change out the balasts if they don't last? Do they dissipate heat well? I dont want to raise the water temp too much.

 

[dcantucson]

Odyssea Metal Halide System

They did have some problems in the past, but I believe they have concurred them.

 

[sen5241b]

My LFS has homemade MH lights all over the place.