250w vs 400w???

[Aquattro]

If it were me, and I had 250 already, I'd probably keep them. I have 400s but not sure I really need that much.

[fiorano]

thx guys like i said i already have the 250's but i have 2 identical ones running off the same ballast and then one in the middle i bought later on and it seems to be brighter than the other 2. could that mean i need a new ballast for the dimmer ones? they all have identical bulbs bought at the same time so its not the bulbs i dont think.

[MikeP]

Originally Posted by fiorano

thx guys like i said i already have the 250's but i have 2 identical ones running off the same ballast and then one in the middle i bought later on and it seems to be brighter than the other 2. could that mean i need a new ballast for the dimmer ones? they all have identical bulbs bought at the same time so its not the bulbs i dont think.

Sorry for the hijack but the answer to your question might answer what I was about to post. Are all magnetic ballasts created equal? And can their performance diminish over time? I have 3 magnetics now but was considering buying a dual ballast to replace the DIY ones I have (bought them used from another canreefer last year), if all magnetics perform the same I might not bother but I'm also looking at electronic ballasts.

Tx

[soups]

I have a 150g 5'x2'x2' with 3/250w DE. All my sps are doing nicly, If you can get your hands on some nice bulbs. You will see better color, So if you ask me, 3/ 250w on a 24" tank will do fine.

One other note; there are some sps need less light when other.

[fiorano]

awesome that sounds good. and right now i think i have giessman 13 500 k bulbs but im not to sure how i feel about them then. what would be a better bulb to use for coral growth and color? hahaha and don't worry about hijacking anything you learn will probably help me out to haha

[soups]

If your looking for one of the best, try (Phoenix)14k

[untamed]

I run 250W MHs and the Geismann 13000K and have no complaints about my SPS growth or colour. I'll probably repurchase this bulb next year. Unless your tank is crazy-tall, the 250's should be just fine....especially since you already own them.

I also run 54W actinic T5.