7100k vs 10000k

[likwid]

Hey there, I am currently running two power compact lights, one 36w actinic, and one 36w 7100k daylight, on my 10 gallon tank. When I have both lights on, my tank looks more yellowish rather than bluish-white. The bulbs are only about 2 months old and have always look like this. I was wondering if upgrading the 7100 to a 10000k would make much difference?

Thanks

[Scavenger]

I had some Coralife 10,000k 65watts and found even they were yellow in my opinion. I'd personally give thought to 50/50's if you want some blue.

[likwid]

So you want me to keep the Actinic bulb, and replace the 7100k with a 50/50? Will this effect the growth of corals at all? Also, where is the best/cheapest place online to order bulbs from canada? I am in Lethbridge and dont have much for SW supplies here.

[Scavenger]

Whoops my mistake, missed that you already had an actinic. My bad!
10,000k and actinic combo, are the best looking pc lighting in my opinion. 36 watts of each isn't much light though, but I guess it depends on what you want to keep in your tank.

[likwid]

Ok, so back to my original question. How big of a difference will going from 7100k to 10000k make? Is it really noticable? Also, I dont think 72w of lighting isnt too bad for a 10g tank.

[Scavenger]

72 watts is good for a 10 gallon tank, but actinic light does nothing except look pretty and make some corals fluoresce. So really you have 36 watts of "growing" light. But like I said, it really comes down to what you keep in there and what you like. After all it's your tank <grin> But yes, I think you will be happier with 10,000k over 71,00k though I don't believe it will be a huge color shift.

[likwid]

Thanks for the help. Anyone else make the shift from 7100k to 10000k? Any online canadian stores you recommend to buy bulbs from?

[Kryten]

I would venture to guess that most people here started with 10,000K. You should notice a fair difference I would think. As far as online retailers go, probably J&L (http://www.jlaquatics.com/phpstore/store_pages/mainpage.php) would be your best bet.

[likwid]

Anyone else make the change from 7100 to 10000k? Im looking for more of that blueish color that I see at LFS, this 7100 gives me a yellowish color in my tank

[vanreefer]

It will make the tank less yellow... and shouldn't slow down growth... and why not go to a local retailer for the bulbs?