Current USA vs. CoraLife

[RAYNOR]

After several threads investigating the "cheap" stuff, Ive decided not to waste my money. Looking now for opinions on which is better (coralife vs. current) -- My fixture will be a 36" power compact w/ moonlights (both are similar in price)

 

[fyrefysh]

I've got the Coralife Aqualight Pro 36", I LOVE it. It's a great buy for the money. I've also upgraded the 2x65W PCs to 2x96W PCs.

 

[Meloco14]

I used to use a 30" CSL hood, which I believe is now the Current USA company. I never had any problems with it. It is well built, and has separate plugs and switches for the 2 PC's and the moonlight, which makes using a dawn/dusk effect very easy. The only thing I would have added to it would be a switch for the moonlight, but this is not necessary. I just put that plug on its own timer. The hood was very sleek and good looking, powder coated aluminum, and had a good reflector and a fan. It is also very DIY friendly, if in the future you decide you want to put a MH bulb in there instead of the PC's. It comes with legs and has a glass shield, so you can have an open top on your tank if you want. If you wanted to hang it as a pendant it would be pretty easy, and if you have a top on your tank you could also lay it flat on top. I would definitely recommend it, assuming the Current USA hood is still the same as the one I used. HTH

 

[pwj1286]

I am happier with retro fitting, thats if you want to go through the trouble to retro.
_________________
Mercedes Benz CLK AMG Black Series

 

[fyrefysh]

To each his (her) own.

 

[RAYNOR]

I've got the Coralife Aqualight Pro 36", I LOVE it. It's a great buy for the money. I've also upgraded the 2x65W PCs to 2x96W PCs.

Do you run your system with an open top? I am trying to decide whether or not I will need some type of glass versa-top, or if the lens on the aqualight will be enough...

 

[fyrefysh]

I run mine PURELY open top, even with a Firefish. The lenses and the fan are enough to keep the hood and tank cool. Here is a few pics of it: http://www.reefs.org/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=81296 HTH

 

[RAYNOR]

Thanks for all the info/advice -- your setup looks great!

 

[fyrefysh]

Thanks! Let me know what you end up with.