Newb needs lighting help for 55g

[Dscribs]

First of all, hello all! This site has been a major help in planning my foray into SW. I have read through a bunch of posts so far and would like to get a definitive answer on my lighting situation.

I have a 55g (48"x12"x20"deep) and am not sure which lighting fixture and bulb combination to go with. I plan on keeping mostly LPS, some softies, zoanths, and an anemone (no SPS, don't think I have the budget for the lights required). From what I've read it looks like I can get by without a MH which would be nice because I don't have a ton of $$. I'm thinking of a 4x54 setup of T5HO's (over PC). My question is Nova Extreme or TEK for the fixture, and what kinda bulb combo? I was thinking 2 ATI Aqua Bluespecial and 2 Actinic Plus Giesemann? All your opinions would be greatly appreciated!!

[collin]

i run 8x54 nova t5 taht i bought for 150 from annofalltrades she has a 4x54 for sale so i would go check that out

[Dscribs]

so 4x54 will be enough then?

[Jnicho]

4 is probably all you can fit over a 55...and will work well for all but the very highest light animals.

[aquawolf]

Originally Posted by Jnicho

4 is probably all you can fit over a 55...and will work well for all but the very highest light animals.

It will be even better if you are able to get a fixture with individual reflectors for the bulbs.

Welcome to TRT!!!

[Loverotties]

4 T5HOs are comparible to his 8 T5s.

[Jadinop]

54w T5 bulbs are HO bulbs. Pretty sure his 8x54w fixture puts out more light than a 4x54w fixture.

[Dscribs]

thanks everyone!