Looking For Advice on Bulbs

[BigRed]

I need to replace the MH lamp on my lighting fixture. It's a 250w DE and I'm curious if anyone has any opinions on bulbs. I like a bright look that will also still make the fluorescents pop a little 12K, 14K?? I'm looking at XM, Hamilton, and Ushio's. Any help would be appreciated.

Thanks

Brett

 

[sgarron]

I like the Aqualine AB 10000 (13k). Very bright and white. If you are not supplementing with t5 actinics or other actinics maybe a phoenix 14k, still pretty bright but with more blue.

 

[MikeNapoli]

I asked the same question a few months back and I settled on Reeflux 12K 250w HQI. I like them alot and I don't think i'll be switching when I have to replace them.

Also I think as far as making things florescent, it's not the MH bulb that you should be looking for, it's the VHO, T5, or powercompact supplimentation that'll get that done.

 

[mott768]

I agree with Mike (NapoliNewJersey) I run 12k's MH on my tank as well as T5's and I'm happy with the color and growth.

 

[NEWSALT]

I use (2) Reeflux 12K 250w SE MH bulbs with (2) 110W Super Actinic VHO's. I like it.

 

[chessmanmark]

I use (2) Reeflux 12K 250w SE MH bulbs with (2) 110W Super Actinic VHO's. I like it.

The VHO Super Actinics will give you that flourescent pop that you are looking for.

I have always used the Phoenix 14K for the look and PAR. They look more like a 20K. If I was to change it probably would be the Reeflux 12k or possibly the XM 10K which require good actinic supplimentation IMO.