Bulb Suggestions

[dvmsn]

I have been running se reeflux 10k on a pfo HQI. The problem is that these bulds are not supposed to run on hqi and burn out like crazy(five bulbs in six months). I have always run xm 10k before these, but I am completely stuck on having a bulb with a blue streak. I am leaning toward 20k radiums or 20k helios. Unfortunaely, I ran 20k xms on a magnetic ballast years ago and it was way to dim. Any suggestions? BTW, I would run Phoenix 14k if they were available in se.

[dvmsn]

400 watts btw

[Rpierce]

Dave- From what I have read, everyone that is getting good growth with 20K is ether running XM or Radiums. I have the XMs on my tank now. You're right, it is very dim. I will probably look for some thing in the 14 or 15 K range in the near future.

[WayneY]

Hey Dave, check out reefopticslighting.com . The guy Weston who is the owner is a nice guy and has great prices on bulbs. I have run these on my tanks for the past 12 months and have had good growth as well as good color. I run the 400w 20ks on a standard mag ballast on my 90g and 400w 14k on my 40g breeder with HQI ballast. These bulbs are only $40 each to boot. I paid $87 for 2- 400w 20ks delivered. Can't beat that:)

[H2OLUVSME]

You could also try an XM 20k again. Ive read they burn a lot whiter (which appears brighter) on hqi ballasts.

Other than that, Ive got nothing but interest :D

[dvmsn]

Ive got one on mine now replacing the reeflux. It is still really blue and dim.

[dvmsn]

I think I am going to try the ushio 14k http://www.reeflightinginfo.arvixe.com/tabular-colortemp-data.php?ColorTemp=14000&Watts=400&LampType=Single+Ended&Shielded=N&Manufacturer=HIT+%28BLV%29&Submit=Submit

[Rpierce]

Dave- Is that what the Ushio is called :

BLV 400W Nepturion 14000K SE 1


I was thinking about trying that also.

[H2OLUVSME]

Cool, Im still interested in what you come up with. :D

[dvmsn]

They are the same

[dvmsn]

They came in today. I think that the 14K designation is accurate. The are not completely blue, but definitely bluish. They are also between a 10k bulb and a 20k for brightness. Of course it remains to be seen how they burn in. They do lack some of the pop you get with a 20k and are more like a 10k with regard to florescence. No yellow at all which is great.

[chad508]

good to hear that you got them. hope they turn out great once they burn in.