My biocube hqi blah blah expensive light broke. A little ticked. Anyone else had problems with this light? The arm is extremely weak and of very poor design. If I take the light off, do I have any other lighting alternatives?
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Depends upon the route you'd like to go and how much you mind spending. If you want something comparable, there are a few options. One would be to get another 150w double-ended halide fixture. Tons of options available (and a relatively wide array of prices from ~$250 USD to $600+ --all new), as well as ways to mount them. You can hang them or use a clip-on type fixture you have now. Another is to go the LED route. These will be more expensive on average, but will draw less electricity and emit less heat. You will not have to replace them yearly, either, as they are meant to last. Lots of fixtures, etc. here, too. I like the "pendant" style systems in both halides and LEDs, which is why for the latter I really like the look of the Kessils, but they may be a bit dimmer than what you already have. They currently retail for ~ $275 USD. The even more intense, but dimmable version is $399.
In any case, if you are on a budget, the halide will be a bit cheaper in the short term. You will have yearly bulb replacements, though, in addition to electricity. The LEDs cost more up front, but will pay for themselves within a year or two in both replacements and energy costs. Either way, it is up to you. I like the actual aesthetic light quality that halides emit better (it looks more natural to my eye), but it is hard to argue with the other benefits of LEDs.
