jazzlvr123

the satellite has a built in reflector, I prefer it over AHS kit becuase it looks a lot nicer built than a plywood box over your tank and theres no manual labor in it. it comes with an acrylic cover that you have the option of adding. but the lags work great

Augus

I am searching light for my 10 gal as well.
Looking at spec for 40w satelike, it say this model come only 1 switch. So how do I turn on only lunar light only for night viewing?

kakkoii

Get this one it is cheaper and better.

MatPat

If you haven't already purchased the Current fixture, you may want to take into account the light that comes with the unit...a combo 10,000K/actinic lamp. You may want to purchase another bulb for this fixture since the actinic portion of the bulb that comes with it isn't much use for plants.

I can understand the desire not to DIY due to the time involved but I thin the AH supply kit would be a better bang for your buck considering the amount of "usable" light you get for the money.

How much is a replacement 10,000K or 6700K bulb? Don't forget to factor that into the cost of the Current fixture.

Agentkhiem

The 40 watt version uses two outlets; one is for the power compact and the other is for the LED light. The switch only applies to the power compacts.

The Actnic bulb that comes default with the Satellites are actually useful for plants because it is in the 460nm range. However, you don't get much red with a 10K and Actinic together, and since plants also need the ranges of 640nm-660nm, you're better off getting a fixture like this if you can... although your 10 gallon has a length of only 20". http://www.current-usa.com/novaextremet5hox2.html

For reference, this is a helpful thread started by Newt regarding what bulbs are best used for Photosynthesis: http://www.aquaticplantcentral.com/f...mperature.html

I own a Satellite 20" Powercompact and I regret not being able to buy a T5HO fixture, mainly because your options of color spectrum are more flexible than Powercompacts.

El Exorcisto

Check out the local Lowes or Home Depot for mercury vapor and metal halide fixtures. They are built hellishly strong and would probably end up cheaper than anything commercially available for aquarium use with similar light output.