1000k's for faster growth?

[Darkstar22]

I know this has been discussed, but please refresh. I currently have a 20L all SPS, and a clam. I have a 250W DE 14000K with a Lumatek ballast over this tank. I love the Phoenix, but was wondering if a 10k will make a big difference in growth or is it minimal?
Thanks

 

[Darkstar22]

It's time for a new bulb, and would go with a 10k if it's a big difference in growth.

 

[ChicagoReefOne]

I'd like to hear about this too. . .

 

[Allmost]

you will loose out on color though with a 10K bulb.

 

[Tang Salad]

I doubt you'll see an increase in growth. The corals are probably getting all the light they need with the 14K.

 

[Darkstar22]

Anyone who has actually seen a difference in growth out there? I'm sure the par would be quite a bit more. Therefore perhaps increased growth?

 

[chadfarmer]

what kind of numbers are you getting now

 

[mike_cmu04]

Going from 14k to 10k you are just going to lose color and not gain alot of growth you probably wont even notice the difference in growth.

 

[DaddyJax]

Growth is not just about the bulbs. Yes it does play a part but not the only one. I have heard testimonies of people claiming more growth from 10k compared to 20k but I have always used 10k's and have always had great growth.

As far as losing color I disagree completely. I have seen many tanks and I like the colors I get from 10k's better, but this is my opinion. I believe that you will get more intense and diverse colors by using a good 10k bulb along with 20k bulbs or strong actinics.
My tanks were lit by a combination of 10k and 12k bulbs.

 

[Darkstar22]

My first MH bulbs were German and very finicky! Lol! Blink on start up. Tar Ballasts 15 years ago....I liked the very crisp light back then. I had Softies, and LPS. Maybe I'll just go with the 10K's and see if there is a difference. If not I have a brand new Phoenix 14k handy. Anyone have suggestions on a 10000k DE bulb for good results?
Thanks

 

[Darkstar22]

Oh , 250w DE Metal Halide Bulb in 10000k. What do you guys like if you have used them over SPS tanks

 

[iap]

I use a 400w radium. I need to buy a new bulb here soon. I get cool growth but if I went to a 10k or 12k would I see a difference in growth rate? If so what brand bulb would be recommended? Thanks.

 

[Darkstar22]

Thats what my thread asks...any experts out there that can help? Do you use 10,000k bulbs, and what brand do you suggest.

 

[badmotorfinger7]

I just switched from 400 w radium to 400 w 10k Xm. It's only Been 2 weeks so nothing to report yet other than my tank looks a lot different!

 

[Darkstar22]

why did you switch? Just to see if you had an increase in growth?

 

[badmotorfinger7]

Ya, growth and also wanted to see if had any positive affects on coloration.

 

[Darkstar22]

So what are your observations so far?

 

[jackson6745]

A 250w 14 is more than enough light for fast growth on a 20gal tank.
IME/IMO Keep the bluer bulbs for better color and lower nutrient level + increase and maintain cal and alk leves for better growth.

I love the look of 10k's but only only larger tanks were you have room to blend in a bunch of actinics.

 

[badmotorfinger7]

So far everything looks the same, but I am interested to see what happens long term. I really dont like the color of the 10k XM's, too yellow for me.

 

[Darkstar22]

You made a drastic change..from the blue of a radium to 10k. I'm sure you will need to get used to the difference!