thanks for the help guys. I'll be going with a 10k dual 250w HQI setup, supplemented by NO actinics for dawn/dusk transition. I'm probably gonna get two PFO Mini HQI pendants with PFO HQI ballasts, and XM 10000k bulbs. I priced out ballasts separate, and reflectors, and comparisons between mogul and DE bulbs, and made my decision.
if I was to DIY everything, let's say... XM 10000k mogul on PFO standard 250w, with half decent reflector, and UV shielded glass, I would only save about $100 all together. I'm willing to pay the extra $100 and get something that works, without loads of tinkering
