Lighting a 180G with T5 HO bulbs

[ctyank]

Is anyone out there lighting their larger planted tanks with T5 bulbs? If so, what lenghths and brand of bulbs are you using? I'm also curious about any effects on plant growth that you've noticed.

I personally have tried the new Aquasuns. They seemed dim and pretty pink. Dimmer than the same VHO bulb actually. I have also tried GE'S 6500K Daylight bulb. Seems like a good bulb. But I wonder if I should pony up the extra bux for the Giesemanns.

Your experience? Other thoughts?

Thanks. - Chris

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Tank details:
180G Heavily Planted
CO2
T5 and VHO lighting
coil substrate heater
pH 6.8, KH 3.5, GH 13, temp 78
bait: tetras, shrimp, otos

[reiverix]

I've got a 6*54w Tek Systems fixture on my 75g. The bulbs I use are the Giesemanns 6000K (http://www.specialty-lights.com/531030.html). I was worried they might be a bit on the yellow side but are actually quite nice and crisp. They are bright though. A lot brighter than the PCs I used, but each bulb is on it's own reflector which makes a big difference.