Best 250w MH Bulb for M58 (Probe) ballast

Discussion in 'Metal Halide Aquarium Lighting' started by bluetang08, Aug 9, 2010.

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  1. bluetang08

    bluetang08 Purple Spiny Lobster

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    Well I have determined my ballast is a probe start Hamilton M58 so the Phoenix 14k's I was looking at are not gonna work as they require an electronic or pulse start ballast so what other quality bulbs do you all suggest. I like the 14k look (slightly blue) but would love to increae my PAR, Im ready to see some GROWTH!!! I currently have the stock Hamilton 14ks but they will be needing replacement next month so I am researching now, any help is much appreciated
     
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  3. bluetang08

    bluetang08 Purple Spiny Lobster

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    Ok I have found these bulbs that are compatible so which is the best for overall appearance and growth, and any other bulb suggestions also.
    Ushio - 14k
    CoralVue Reefflux - 12k
    XM- 15k
    Blue Life SPS - 14k
     
  4. GuitarMan89

    GuitarMan89 Giant Squid

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    I don't think the Ushio is as blue as you want, I believe it is a more yellow look.
     
  5. Dingo

    Dingo Giant Squid

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    Ushio- is an icy white color very high PAR
    Coralvue- gives gorgeous colors but not too good growth. its great for looks but after the 6 month burn in drop-off its just about junk
    XM- high par... good bulb but just not one of my favorites because it doesnt really compliment colors all that well
    SPS- the 10k and the 20k are great quality bulbs... but the 14k is really really bad... like one of the worst out there