New House/New tank

[RobbAdams]

How about 48 x 18 x 18 This is a standard 75 gallon size right? could I get away with a single bulb halide system if I went to a 36 x 24 x 18 high?

I deffinately want a drilled tank this time around. I am looking forward to being able to do most of the maintenance away from the Family room, and without my wife watching so carfully to make sure no water splashes around! Also looking forward to being able to have some sort of auto top off type set up.

My wife works for an electrical contractor so I will see what kind of MH ballasts she may be able to source for me through work. I belive this is really the biggest cost for this set up, no?