What is the best halide bulb?

[oscarslr]

double ended 14k bulb?

[redfishsc]

http://www.cnidarianreef.com/lamps.cfm

Check out the PAR ratings, IMO there will be your answer. For me, pics would be secondary.

[Kenzy]

There is no such thing as the "best bulb". Everything is a trade-off, Is par more important or colour, what about price or where its made?

Everyone seems to have their favorites, you'll need to look at other tanks and decide what appeals to you and meets your needs.

[therealfatman]

Depends on whether the best is in reference to viewing pleasure or stoney coral growth or whatever is the most imporant to you. I use different bulbs for different applications. I use three different K value halide bulbs; 6500 K, 10000 K and 14000 K. I prefer coral growth rates of a 6500K bulb, viewing at 10000K, however most of my clients prefer 14000K. I do not like or use bulbs of a K value higher than that. However the actual lighting outputs in the way of wavelengths and quantity at which wave length are not necessarily the same betwwen different manafacturers. I have seen 14000K bulbs that put out lighting neraly identical to other brand 10000K bulbs.

[Paulairduck]

Stand alone ( No actinics), most par, and price, the phoenix bulb is hard to beat.

I am trying the aquamaxx De 150 watter and so far I like it.:D

[Macimage]

Who currently has the best price on the Phoenix DE 14K?

Thanks!
Joyce

[jda]

I really like the Phoenix 14K too. Most places are about the same - I got mine at Marine Depot last time since I had some other misc stuff to pick up too.

I will only recommend the Phoenix 14K if you are using HQI ballasts. If you are using electronic MH ballasts, then I think that they are too blue and you are better off with a 10K like a Hammy or AB.

[Kenzy]

$50 at Premium Aquatics for the 150w 14k. Haven't seen anything lower yet.