CSL Smartlite?

[Mother Reefer]

I've never used PC lighting before and this bulb deterioration is making me think. If I have to replace the bulbs 2x/yr it really isn't a big problem but at replacing those bulbs 2x/yr then I'm spending about the same as what a MH bulb would go for and that would last me a yr.

I don't want to spend a ton on a MH ballast (& they all seem quite expensive) so I guess I'll look at a DIY MH ballast or going with PC and changing them 2x/yr

Has anyone made a DIY MH ballast?Or a more efficient/economical lighting idea?