should i upgrade?

[robbyville]

Steve is quite right in regards to energy savings. I think that most people at this point don't really look at that aspect since it would take an extremely long time to make up for the additional costs (Which seem to be much better now!)

I would probably look more towards the fact that E-ballasts, run cooler, quieter, and more efficiently although I'm not sure if they extend the life of the average bulb.

That being said, I don't run E-Ballasts yet as I felt that the cost was prohibitive. When I upgrade next there is no doubt in my mind that if venki's systems have good reports from users that I would buy them, even if it was just to save space.

You know, I understand your desire to upgrade in order to save later, but I also have to wonder if the ballasts will come down in price with time, similar to computer equipment. That at least would give you some variety. Now all I have to do is follow my own advice... I also was watching the thread on his equipment and my wife has had to stop me twice from ordering a new 400w system (My dual 250w is only 3months old)

Good luck,

Rob