I just got some ochtodes from the recent frag swap in the area and just posted some "update" photos in the local forum here for the club. This might help reassure you somewhat. When I first got the algae, it was not very colorful, more a rusty red/brown. I am running straight power compact lights (96 or 98w, 10k/actin) in a Coralife 36" hood. Less than a month later, the octodes has colored out (and I think grown a bit), showing a nice deep purple color under 'daylight'.
Ochtodes change.jpg
Hope this helps somewhat in what to expect!