[DLBerlin]

It's coming up on time to replace the 5500k(yup!) 250w se bulbs over our 180. We have gotten good growth with these but they dont bring out the color very well. We have 2 250 watt MH(advance magnetic ballasts) and 2-72" 165w actinic VHO right now. I've been thinking about switching to 10k bulbs but after seeing John Brancheau's pics I'm tempted to go with 14k Hamiltons. Would the 14k be too blue with 330w actinic? My husband really doesnt want anything near as blue as my 20k's I have on the 120.
Also is going to such high k going to slow down the growth?
And would I need to acclimate for a change like this?
Debbie

 

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If you are use to 5000k bulbs.... 10000k would be the way to go. You have quite a few choices, CoralVue....new and improved, XM, excellent value, Ushio little expensive, but well tested. Personally, I run CoralVue and XM. The 14k bulbs are real blue, Closer to the 20k then the 10k bulbs. Also, with a 20k bulb, your PAR is gonna go down quite a bit. However, debating bulbs is like debating which car manufacturer is the best.....never ending discussion.

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[Newts]

I've never used anything but 10000ks so I can't comment much on self experience, but john has always said he gets good growth with 14000k and the pictures he's shown shows it too.

With 10k it depends on the bulb you get, Ushios are white, but Aqualine Bushke's are more blue looking. Many say the AB are more like 13000k and they have a high par compared to other 10ks. I use Ushios, I can find them on Ebay for under $70 before shipping usually.

 

[DLBerlin]

I was thinking of the coralvue 10K's from Krusk.
I think maybe the 14K's would be too blue.
I run 2-175w 20K XM's on my 120 zoa tank and its real blue and not too bright-works for my zoa tank but the 180 is a Mixed reef-SPS,LPS mostly with a couple softies and anemones. And its in the livingroom so we def.-dont want a blue glow.