whats the best/cheapest lighting?

Please tell us what kind of tank you are talking about

ie. CO2, Excel or non-CO2/non-Excel.

Chris

 

We need to know the size of the tank as well. Four foot fluorescent tubes are widely available in many types, while 30 inch tubes are very hard to find.

 

I use regular fluorescents and had some success. I do have issues growing some plants but I am relatively sure that is due to me just being a novice. Another issue is CF fixtures tend to look better in my opinion. The tank in my sig is all regular 40 watt fluorescents

 

When I had a 29 gallon tank I was amazed to find that there were no 30 inch fluorescent tubes available at all, with the exception of the LFS variety costing an arm and a leg apiece. So. I started with a three tube 24 inch T8 setup, with reflectors I made myself, trying to keep the cost down. I ended up spending at least as much as the AH Supply light kits, and that made it very easy to decide to replace the lights with the AH Supply light kits. I had twin 55 watt lights for most of the time on that tank. I had made my own hood. So, for me, the AH Supply fixtures were the cheapest way to go, and far more effective than the more expensive three tube 24" setup.