T5 Branding

[PhotoJohn]

I need to replace the T5 actinic and daylight bulbs on my tank 48" 54w. I know (or have been told) many bulb brands are all made in the same factories and just slapped with different label brands. Is there any reason for me to buy a certain brand? These are purely supplemental lighting, I have 2x 175w MHs.

I would like a 10-14k (more white, no yellow) look for the daylight bulbs and I would like the actinics to really make my corals glow with florescence.

Do people have specific suggestions on brands and bulb type/color?

Thank you

[Carty]

With T5's you can truly see the difference with different brands... both visually, and the PAR levels

Basically anything ATI, UVL, or Geissman your golden

[rayme07]

Hey Carty do you have a link to where those bulbs are sold. Thanks

[Phurst]

Agreed. Many of the cheaper bulbs might be the same stuff rebranded, but the higher quality bulbs aren't.

[Carty]

Aquarium Supplies - Aqua Buys (http://www.aquabuys.com) sells both UVL and Geissman (also called powerchrome)

they are a TR sponsor, the store is actually not far at all from my house, i've been there a few times, he helped me get my lights as well :)