2 bilb or 4 bulb?

[Secondgen]

Hello all, I am thinking about setting up a 20 gallon high nano reef as I have been without a tank for awhile. My question is I have decided to go with T5HO lighting, and don't know if I can get away with a 2 bulb system, or if I really need a 4 bulb system. I wanna keep zoas, shrooms, rics, LPS, and maybe try some easy to keep sps. The reason for my question is because I can get a nicer name brand 2 bulb fixture that probably has better reflectors for the same money as a 4 bulb cheapo fixture. I have a set amount I can spend so keep that in mind. Anxious to hear your replies. Thank you.

[Secondgen]

No takers on this one?

[cbandotho]

If you are already thinking about SPS then you should get the 4 bulb fixture. I don't know of anyone in the hobby who hasn't made the mistake of trying to save some cash only to spend more later.

 

If you buy the 2-bulb fixture today I can guarantee it will be a short time before you are upgrading to a 4 bulb fixture and will end up spending more money in the end.

 

My 2 cents would be to save for what you really want.

 

HTH

[Secondgen]

Thanks for the reply. I think I might give the four bulb Odyssea fixture a shot. There seems to be mixed feelings about that brand, but I am not big on name brands.

[FiRsT-aNd-LaSt]

I wouldn't recommend the Odyssea fixtures, at a minimum I would say at least go with a 4 bulb fishneedit for $99 bucks.

[cbandotho]

Do you mind sharing what your budget is?

[d'Espresso]

+1

[Secondgen]

I wanted to keep it under 100. I know the experiences are mixed with the odyssea fixtures, but I have heard good reviews from a local reef club memb. Can anyone tell me the differences between the Odyssea, and the FNI fixtures?

[will46r]

I like my Odyssea PC fixture. It's not top of the line but it's servicable.

[GokesReef]

The only thing that matters is reflectors.

 

Then you have convenience factors like 2 power cords, switches or built in timers. Also, built in moonlights.

 

If you're planning to do SPS, get a good 4 bulb setup.

[entendu]

I have an FNI 4x24 Watt T5HO system, and I'm really happy with the results. And the best part is that it was only around $100.

 

However, there are no built-in timers, or moonlights. It has one reflector that contours around each bulb.

 

It does have two power cords if you want to put it on timers.

 

For the price, you won't beat it, and I am pleased with the quality of light.