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This website documents my experiences with Apistogramma and Discus in a planted tank.
Be sure to check out all of my pictures
Current Nova Extreme Freshwater 2x39w T5HO
Out of the box this is a nice fixture. Its sleek and fits the standard tank rim like a glove. The temperature impact is nill and the fixture runs surprisingly cool without a fan. However, you do get what you pay for.
Specifications and list of features can be found here:
http://www.current-usa.com/novaextremet5hox2.html
Pros...
1. This light runs very cool.
2. Very sleek design.
3. The fixture is silent.
Cons...
1. Poor reflector
1b. Shadows, poor light spead.
1c. Inefficient.
All T5HO fixtures are not created equal. Quality reflectors are the key to T5HO.
I find this particular fixture to be extemely wasteful due to its inefficient reflector. The same 2x39w T5HO bulbs combined with quality individual reflectors are capable of lighting a tank twice the size. Keep in mind two quality reflectors are almost the same cost as this fixture.
I would not use this fixture for anything more then a moderately difficult tank. If you plan on using two fixtures save yourself the headache and get a quality four bulb fixture with individual reflectors.
Otherwise this fixture is a good bang for the buck and the 24 inch model might be an excellent choice for the smaller 24 inch tank. Current USA makes quality products but do not expect too much from this one.
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