best stand alone 250 watt HQI bulb

[trigger111]

I recently got a deal I could not pass up on a 250 watt HQI pendant. My problem is I don't have a clue which bulb to use. Living in Iowa I have only seen three aquariums with metal halide lights so I don't have much of a reference point. I am leaning towards the Phenoix 14k bulb, but am unsure if that alone will be pleasing aesthetically. The tank is 24"x24"x24" if that helps. I want something that has a hint of blue, but not sacrifice a ton in the growth department. So any suggestions would be appreciated.

Thanks

[USC-fan]

Phoenix 14k

[gcarroll]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=9766194#post9766194 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by trigger111
I want something that has a hint of blue, but not sacrifice a ton in the growth department. So any suggestions would be appreciated. I think the PHoenix is you best bet. You may consider the Reeflux 12K also.

I do think the Ushio 20K is one of the best looking bulbs that i have used in the DE format. Problem is that PAR was very low.

[trigger111]

Ok, thanks I have heard good things about the Phoenix bulb but have not really considered or came up with any other options. Thank you

[finless]

I have a phoenix and like it. But wanted more grow power so I added 4 t5 ho's. It's a 20"x20"x20".
My buddy didn't like it and thought it was to blue.
personal taste.

[smatter]

Giesemann Coral. I thought the Phoenix looked like Tidy Bowl, way too blue and phoney looking, washed out. I have heard they look better on electronics.

[finless]

elec. is the way to go.
But seem to get more par out of a tar ballast(cap&coil)

[gcarroll]

For me, the phoenix burns in white with a blue tint (HQI ballast). I have seen many tanks with bluer lighting. I would not call the color fake looking. I have heard many people complain about washed out looking corals but my coral coloration is great (by most people's standards). IMO, I don't want a bulb that just makes brown corals look colored. That is why I switched out the Ushio 20K.

[trigger111]

It will be hooked up to an electroinic balast so that sounds good. Thanks everyone

[want2reef]

MY Phoenix bulbs still looks good after 12 months. :)

I am waiting until illuming.com gets more in so I can replace them.

So yes, I would go Phoenix too. :)