250W MH DE vs 400W Se

[Giovanni]

A seller here on RC claims that 250watt DE have almost the same par as 400W SE bulbs of same kelvin. What gives, is this guy full of it?

 

[jeffbrig]

Depending on the ballast and bulb choices, it's quite possible. HQI magnetic ballasts commonly drive 250w DE bulbs with 325-350w or more. Coupled with a quality reflector, it's entirely possible for the "250w" DE to produce PAR levels that rival a 400w SE.

 

[Giovanni]

I have Icecap electronic ballast for my 250s on PFO mini pendants. I will be going with Lumenarc 3 mini pendants, Icecap 400w 220v electronic ballast. I would assume that all but bulb and pendant would be equal. In this case I figure 400 SE would have far more par than the 250s of the same kelvin.