DE halide ques

[GeoB]

As far as the color thing there seems to be no standard between manufactures?

From what I've read it seems like sometimes there is not a standard within a manufacturer; color sometimes varies between the same bulbs by the same manufacturer. Add other variables like which ballast is used and the age of the bulbs and it almost seems like a craps shoot.

How long do the DE bulbs last on a electronic ballast vs hqi ballast? Are the reflectors better for the DE bulbs?

[brewercm]

I've liked the Hamilton 14K DE bulb myself. It's is much more blue than the coralvue and appears brighter to me also. Not sure about what it looks like next to a Phoenix but have wanted to see what they look like also just don't have the $$ to blow on different bulbs to test one side by side and turn around and sell it after a weeks use for a 50% loss.

[matt]

How long do the DE bulbs last on a electronic ballast vs hqi ballast? Are the reflectors better for the DE bulbs?

I can't answer the part about how long the bulbs last on electronic vs HQI, but regarding the reflectors, I think it's pretty tough to beat the performance of the lumenarc reflectors and they're for SE bulbs. They do now make a reflector for DE bulbs and I imagine it gets more out of the bulbs than other fixtures, and it includes the UV shield.

http://www.reefexotics.com/lumenarc.htm

[brewercm]

That's great news, I've been waiting for a smaller DE version.

[GeoB]

Finally found a great thread on RC that discusses Lumenarcs as well as SE vs DE: http://reefcentral.com/forums/showth...p;pagenumber=1

How does this deal from ReefExotics sound (nice link Matt!) -
Lumenarc Retro Kits:
Coralvue electronic ballast
choice of Reeflux SE MH bulb 10,000K/12,000K
Large or Mini Lumenarc Reflector
adjustable mogul socket and power cord
Mini Lumenarc Retro Kit $284.99
Large Lumenarc Retro Kit $284.99

[matt]

I don't know anything about the bulb, but JimD was running 'em I think. I'm pretty sure you'll be very happy with the reflectors. You can go to Sanjay's site and look him his reflector comparison and you'll see how the lumenarc is much better than the others.