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Originally Posted by captain_bu
Brighter using the same exact bulbs? If the bulbs are not identical I am not sure that you can compare which fixture is getting more light into the tank based on the design of the unit and quality of reflectors. It would be great if there was info available as to what the PAR level differences are between the two using identical bulbs over the same size and depth tank. Obviously don't expect anyone to have that info but hopefully that is the kind of info will become available once people start getting their recently ordered $150 PAR meters and running some tests. I have no doubt that the TEK is the better fixture of the two but at approximately twice the price without bulbs (if you are comparing the 48" 4 x54 models) I would want a significantly higher "bang for the buck" from the TEK before I could justify spending the extra money. You can buy the Catalina, replace the bulbs with Geismanns and still spend a lot less than the cost of the TEK with no bulbs.
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Agreed on every point.
Quote:
Originally Posted by MO3N
very true it will be hard to tell unless people have had par meters on each light but i was look also at quality, life expectance and light into the tank as well just what one is going to be all around a better fixture.
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There don't seem to be any indications of lack of quality on the catalina lights. I've had the 4 x 54w 48" since july 08 and have not had any issues with it. The difference in price? It's manufacturer direct. No distributors, retailers, etc marking up the price.
I've not owned a Tek, so I cannot directly answer your question, but the 48" 4 x 54w catalina is more light then you'll ever need.....
Also, they will swap out the actinic at no charge. I don't know if they carry the Geismanns--you'd have to call and ask.