Light for a 50g

[Rekarp]

Hi, this is my first time posting :D ! I have kept Sw fish for about 3 years and I am moving up from my old 20g to a new 50g. I need some guidence on the lighting for my 50g. I want to keep some soft corals and maybe some SPS.I would like to spend as little as posible. Also I have a 2x55 watt PC light fixture left over from my 20g Sw tank and I am hoping to use this in addition. And I need some suggestions on a hang-on protein skimmer.

[Rekarp]

Would this work?

http://store.yahoo.com/lamps-now/4654lamvhore.html

Also I am thinking of the CPR BAK-PAK as the protein skimmer.

[BrianH]

Rekarp,

What are the dimensions of the 50gal? I only ask because the standard glass 50gal tanks are only 36" wide and the VHO lights you linked are 46.5" wide.

For a protein slimmer I would recommend either the aqua c remora pro or the bak pak II(the one rated for 100 gal). IMHO the regular bak pak can not handle a 50gal tank.

Brian

[Rekarp]

The top of the tank is 48"x14". And the BAK-PAK I was thinking of is the 2R.

[BrianH]

This is the bak pak I was talking about. bak pak (http://www.marinedepot.com/a_ps_cpr_bakpak_info.asp?CartId=#bakpakdp) . IMHO the regular (2r) bak pak is just too small for a 50gal.

Brian

[Rekarp]

I dont want to shell out $200 on a protein skimmer. (Kinda have a thin wallet:p )

[mogurnda]

Kinda have a thin wallet This will be a hard hobby for you, then. In the long term, you will be happier if you don't skimp now. That's true whether it's lights, skimmer, live rock, whatever. I agree with BrianH about getting the double BakPak or the Remora. I am running a 2R on a 20, and it's adequate, but it's too small for a 55.

[Rekarp]

I have decided on getting the Remora. I am new to the site not the hobby.

[mogurnda]

Sorry if i sounded snide. I have many avoidable failures to show for my earlier stinginess.

[Rekarp]

Thats ok. Thank you for all your help. I will ost later when I get my lights in.