Lighting Ideas, planted tank, help pls.

[Simpleton]

Hello

I ahve a 60 gallon that is 2X2X2. My problem is getting enough light for 2 or 3 watts per gallon. What would be the cheapest way to get that required amount is metal hallide my only option and if it is how do i go about wiring a metal halide system any help would be great thanks.
Craig

 

[dattack]

That is a nice tank!

Given that the tank is 2 foot deep, a metal halide is the best option in terms of lighting for you tank.  

I think the best bet is probably hang a pendant MH (175W)  which requires no wiring.  Most of the retro metal halide kits don't really need much wiring other than screwing the socket and bulbholder onto the canopy.

These days the cost of MH's cost as much as power compacts.