need input on mh bulbs

[clamgal]

I have 400w ballast with 2 x 96 pc actinics. I currently have a Hamilton 14k bulb that needs to be replaced. I like the look of it, but I have nothing to compare it to. I've narrowed it down to these:

XM 400w 15k
Reflux 12k
Hamilton 14k
South Pacific 14k

I had also considered going 20k but I don't know how blue it would look especially with the actinics.
If you have any experience or pics of the above, it would truly help with making a decision.
Thanks, Adriana

[SoLiD]

I assume you are talking about single ended mogul style bulbs, right?

[clamgal]

yes, SE bulbs

[mikedelgado]

I use reeflux 12k bulbs on coralvue ballasts. there is a pic of my tank on page 5 of the for sale forum. It is under my post for the live rock for sale

[ACE]

I use 12K Reeflux also.

[clone]

i have used all 4 of those bulbs,with the same supplementing light.
i would have to say XM15k on a PFO ballest was the S***.
it was a nice calming color.a crisp blue.
and i had moderate growth.

[Joshua]

The 400 watt 20kk XM lamps aren't too blue. There should be some pics of Jim Norris's tank around here somewhere, that's what he used. I plan to go with the 20kk XM's in 400 watt with this new tank.

[Bill S]

I have 400w 20K Helios. I've got a spare, if you want to try it out. I kind of like the color, but my growth has been slower.

[clamgal]

Thank you for your responses. I decided to go with the hamilton. I needed to order a new ballast for my pc and I thought I would save myself the shipping if I got both from the same place (hamilton technology). I may try a 20k in the near future. I would love to see pictures from other tanks just the same. There are so many beautiful setups, that it inspires me to keep trying to improve mine. I will post a pic. sorry for the quality
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2107/2514457783_d16b2fae51_b.jpg

[DrMark]

i ran two Hamiltons 400w 14000K over my 214gal and loved them.
Not to be content with what I like, at 10 months I changed to my current Ushio 14000K. I like them too, but I like the Hamiltons better. I believe next time around I will go back to the Hamilton 14000K...........good choice.
mark

[hobogato]

nice lookin tank! really like the rock work