Macro lighting

There has been always a lot of talk between the few coldwater aquarists about macro lighting. I am fully aware of the different types, their benefits and requirements (Ex. Metal Halide, T5, NO). I am interested in the opinion of anyone who has grown cold water macros as to what type of flourescent lighting would be best. I am utilizing T5's and need to know what combination of 2 bulbs is most effective out of 10k, actinic, and 6700k bulbs.

Well, Based off growing experience with non marine plants I would say 6700 because of there high kelvin rating, But, Becauese 10k has 2300 higher kelvins I would say those depending on tank size. I would have atleast one actinic even if it meant rigging up a 3 tube system (10ks outside actinic in middle)

I don't have personal experience with growing temperate macros but i can tell you that lighting requirements are very if not exactly similar to those of tropical origin. 10k and your 6700k bulbs should be fine though i do not know the benefits of actinic on macros.

I am running 10ks on my tank. I recently brought back a lot of macro algae

^^^^ There you go!

Well, it really depends on what you want in the tank. I would strongly suggest having two 10k lights, and one actinic. The reason for actinic is because many types of coralline algae will grow 110% better under it. You could also stimulate the hours of a day by turning on your actinic light an hour before you turn on your 10ks and leaving it on an hour later. This tends to be healthier for the reef setting. A timer would do the trick here.