I've had no problem with my many BTAs and T5s. I have MH on my big tank, but my many clones have come mostly from my 55 and nano, both of which have T5s.

As noted above, as is typical in this hobby, if you buy decent product up front, it will save you in the end. I have a Nova on my 55, and I've put $60 in repair parts, and now it needs at least 1 ballast.