PC vs T5 lighting?

[Jason4]

Which is better? Im looking to get a new system for a 29 gallon ( 30" across) so I can put more than mushrooms in my tank.

The T5 comes with 4 bulbs, 24"long, 24w each. Total 96 w

The PC comes with 2 dual bulbs, 24" long, 65w each. Total 130w


Most people seem to prefer T5s, but they dont put out as much wattage as the PCs.??


I cant go with a 6 bulb system because it wont fit on the tank and for some reason all the 4 bulb systems that will fit come with 24" long bulbs.

 

[Vincenzo]

Try this 150w Metal Halide i have it on my 29g and its a great fixture
150w Metal Halide you will be able to keep corals with that for sure.

 

[bjohanson1234]

The t5's put out more usable light than PC lights do. The wattage number is just how much electricity is used. Not a measure of how much light is put out. Unfortunatly, t5s are hard to find in 30 inches long.

 

[Jason4]

The t5's put out more usable light than PC lights do. The wattage number is just how much electricity is used. Not a measure of how much light is put out. Unfortunatly, t5s are hard to find in 30 inches long.

good to know. thanks

 

[Smitty]

+1 bj, t-5's are much better than pc's. I also have a 30' 29gal tank, and I have a clip on metal halide fixture.

 

[reeffreak]

Forget about watts,that 96w T5 puts out way more PAR(photosynthetic active radiation) then the 130w PC fixture.

If you go with T5's.I would look for at least 4 bulbs and individual reflectors.

 

[Ulta]

Go with a 150w MH, it will be much more sufficient for corals even SPS :)