Better to put 3 x 250 over it. I know what you are saying about that center
brace. That thing is a major pain, and I won't ever get a tank with one. You
will just have to keep that glass very clean (top and bottom), and less light
demanding things will do just fine in that center spot.

a hint

4 175w spaced evenly skips the center brace just nicely

at least on my 125 and provides a nice amount of light, though 4 250's would have been
better, its a FO now with 6 32w NO lights

--
Richard Reynolds