[map95003]

I have a 6x54w T5 fixture with 3x10k and 3xActinics(460), this combination seem to do the job of growing corals however I'm not too crazy of the look, I prefer a more blue look. The bulbs have a few more months in them but I'm thinking of replacing them early with ATI bulbes (or at least 1/2 of them now, 1/2 later).

This is the combination I'm considering, please let me know what you think or recommend for coral color and growth.

Note: I only have softies and LPS in the tank (& some fish).

blue plus
aquablue
blue plus
aquablue
blue plus
aquablue

[ljv]

You probably have the same Current USA fixture that I have. I bought mine just a few months ago and I felt the same way about the color. The light was quite bright but seemed too white and washed out.

Last week I replaced 2 of the 460nm bulbs with two 420nm bulbs (UV Lighting brand). It made a subtle but definite improvement. I am much happier. I may swap one of my 10K with a 12K to get a little more blue, but for now I am satisfied.

[unclejed]

Originally Posted by map95003

I have a 6x54w T5 fixture with 3x10k and 3xActinics(460), this combination seem to do the job of growing corals however I'm not too crazy of the look, I prefer a more blue look. The bulbs have a few more months in them but I'm thinking of replacing them early with ATI bulbs (or at least 1/2 of them now, 1/2 later).

This is the combination I'm considering, please let me know what you think or recommend for coral color and growth.

Note: I only have softies and LPS in the tank (& some fish).

blue plus
aquablue
blue plus
aquablue
blue plus
aquablue

Ah yes, what combination to use, this is a very subjective subject somewhat. Finding the combo you like (the way it looks to you) and what is best for the coral will be purely experimental. I have a 55 gal. all (except one) soft coral and I recently went to all actinic similar to what you want to do. One of my bulbs is called Actinic + and it mimics a 10,000k with a very bright but bluish look. I am still assessing the combo to see if I want to throw in a 10,000k back in the mix. Have fun with it!