Good noob setup shopping list?!?!

Do you have a canopy? Or are you willing to buy one? Also, have you checked into a local club for used equipment? Used equipment from clubs can be had for unbelievably low prices and the quality is typically good because people are just upgrading to bigger systems. I bought my MHs for $200 with bulbs as an example.
 
Ok so you are saying that I should go with this:

http://www.drsfostersmith.com/Product/Prod_Display.cfm?pcatid=12772&N=2004+113175


instead of this:

http://www.drsfostersmith.com/Product/Prod_Display.cfm?pcatid=13637&N=2004+113345



it just seems like your getting less light for more money.... but i guess they run cooler and there must be some other benefits...

actually, the more i think about it... the more i like it... especially if the light output is as wonderful as you say it is... i want it!!
 
I'd not go with the top one either, it doesn't have indidvidual reflectors which makes a big difference.

Watts per gallon is a good guideline but is only a guideline. T5s are specifically designed to use less watts for a higher output of light. You'll be able to light deeper and brighter with them than you will typical flourscents but to get the best quality from them you'll want indvidual metal reflectors for each bulb.

For those keeping fish only or a FOWLER you can get away with less lighting.
 
You don't need a lunar light, it is for your benefit only. Those that get them do so because they don't want a dark tank after the main lights go off.

Since you're keeping a FOWLER yes you can go with just about any non UV light you want.
 
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