my mind is running numbers and colors and i dont know what do do!

argh!
ok here goes...
my husband and i are getting metal halides for my 50g, decided we like the idea of a 10000k bulb (may change this too) on a 250w ballast, but my husband is a DIY kinda guy and cant decide between a pulse(M138) or probe(M58) ballast.
What are the pros and cons of each?
also, what bulbs would you recommend for each?
I would really appreciate anyones response (even if its just to laugh at me)
thanks
Colleen & Brandon