Nathan,
Here's the scoop. First, I really like them. Now you have to understand that I like a blue color in my reef. I also supplement w/ 2 VHO actinics. But, with this new 250 watt 12,000k bulb, I really don't need the VHO! This is great! I also use a light meter, and I measured the intensity of my 14,000k w/ VHO before I changed out the ballasts and bulbs. When I put in the new bulbs, I got a reading of 5 on the high scale at the bottom of my 24" deep tank. Before I got a 2 at the bottom, so there is definately a intensity increase. I can also just look at the tank and see the difference. All in all, the upgrade was completely worth it and I'm glad I went with those bulbs. The main reason is this: There are no single ended 250 watt 10,000k german bulbs that use a standard ballast (not HQI), and I don't want the yellow/green color that I have heard the Iwasaki bulbs have. I have no idea how long the bulbs will hold their color, but even if they were to shift toward yellow, I wouldn't be too upset because they would still look great with my actinic supplement. Anyway, if you want more intensity and like a bluer color, go for these bulbs.
one last thing, for comparison, these bulbs look more like a Euro 14,000k than a german 10,000k, but not as blue as the 14,000k. They're like the add says, somewhere in the middle. Also, I bought hamilton replacement ballasts and they fit into my existing enclosure just fine. The re-wiring was easy. Oh yes, I added a radioshack 4" fan to the hood, and it seems even cooler than before because of the greatly increase airflow! What can I say, I'm happy all around.
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-Life's a Reef, so frag'n enjoy it.
[This message has been edited by GoldenGoby (edited 20 January 2000).]
