Mobile Bay Reef Keepers

Hey I question on this metal halide fixture I found on ebay I was wondering if it was worth purchasing for my 55 gal. The corals I have are several acros, a montipora, maze brain, candy cane & a few zoas. Is the wattage too much even if the lps and zoas are place close/ on bottom. The link is here
http://item.mobileweb.ebay. com/viewitem?index=9&nav= SEARCH&nid=47652169025&itemId= 300494471085

The link is either down or invalid. Same results with copy/paste.

Here's the fixture:
http://cgi.ebay.com/48-Metal-Halide-Lig ... 0494471085

I can't comment on that fixture in particular, other than to read their policy. Ultimately why I went with another fixture (below). They consider all the bulbs and other items "Free Items", which means they aren't going to cover them when the fragile bulbs break in transit.


If you want to save a few bucks, here is the fixture I went with over our 90 gallon (SPS, LPS, Softie, Macro). Exact same deal, a refurbished unit direct from CurrentUSA. I ended up bidding on it and paying $196 for the fixture, which with brand new bulbs and new wiring/internals was a steal.

http://cgi.ebay.com/48-NovaExtreme-Pro- ... 4154b233c7

They also have larger 8 x 54w fixtures too, or smaller 4 x 54w
http://pet-supplies.shop.ebay.com/Aquar ... 11.c0.m282

Ah, one of those halide fixtures. Most have sub-par reflectors and bulbs. Basically, you get less light for the same amount of energy (and at 250w each, that's a lot). It may cost a bit more up front, but it may be worth investing in some quality fixtures or pendants for the halides. Hamilton actually makes a great fixtures at a much lower cost compared to, say, Sunlight Supply (LumenMax). They also usually include the lamp--all for about $275. That's what I'm currently using. They are about $250 each, but I think they're currently sold out at the moment. If you still prefer an enclosed, complete fixture, there aren't too many higher performance options that are cheap. You'll really pay for convenience there.

If I did happen to buy the ones off ebay wld they be too much power far a 55 gal with the corals I listed.

No, it wouldn't be too much. Just be sure to acclimate everything very carefully.