Which light fixture to get? New to T-5's. Nova extreme or hello light?

[odie]

Well I got bit hard by the reefing bug and I would like to use my 55 gallon I have already.

I am torn by these two fixtures. Nova Extreme T-5 Fixture. $229 shipped
http://www.drsfostersmith.com/produc...0&pcatid=16770

Or
Hello light 4x 48'' T-5 $163 shipped
http://www.hellolights.com/index.asp...OD&ProdID=1717

Nova extreme has three cords so I can stage the light cycle and has a fan and lens.

Hellolight I could fabricate a cover pretty easy with with a magnets holding acrylic. Claims to have Individual parabolic reflectors but looks just like the Hellolights.

Opinions?

[Loverotties]

Nova,because of the seprate cords and fan.

[crvz]

the reflectors on the hellolights look like they're higher quality, but I've no idea on performance.

[odie]

I was guessing better reflector on the HL. Cords, fan, cover and the ability for staged lighting on the Nova. Is the better reflector worth it?

[D.J.]

i would go with the 216w nova.....imo......

[odie]

DrFandS says it has individual reflectors but the current website says parabolic. Is it old stock that the Dr's are selling?

[odie]

So the parabolic lights in the Hellolights isnt a major point to purchase this over the Nova?

[depitch]

Probably not a factor for purchase.

PAR the degree to which light penetrates the water is a more important factor.

I have an 8 bulb T5 Nova fixture over my 90 gallon tank and I'm very happy with it.

If you are considering raising SPS corals or Clams a MH bulb fixture might be an option.

HTH

Doug

[crvz]

Originally Posted by depitch

If you are considering raising SPS corals or Clams a MH bulb fixture might be an option.

Definitely an option, but my measured PAR values from my T5 rig is well in line with any comparable MH setup.