optimal distance between light and marquee?

[sdrob04]

I'm about to mount the fluorescent light fixture in my upright cab and was hoping for some input on an appropriate distance to allow between the bulb and the plexi/artwork.

[Nocturnaloner]

Like most things about building a cab, it really is a matter of your personal judgement about what looks best.  I have a standard under-cabinet style 18" fluorescent fixture, about 5-6 inches behind my marquee.  My choice was to put it in the vertical center by hanging it on a 2x4 cross brace.  Lighting is very even, but my marquee is mostly black, with a mask layer behind it.

[RayB]

3 to 4 inches should be fine. So long as you're using a fixture/bulb rating that won't generate too much heat.