Best MH bulb for 250W for sps

[Reel North]

I've read through a bunch of threads and looking for another opinion. I'm looking at getting a 220g (72x24x30 tall). I have 3 MH DE pendants that will light the 24" width beautifully. I have 3 PFO HQI ballasts (M80) that I just got brand new in the boxes and would like to use them. I also have some icecap electronic ballasts.

I plan to run a reef brite LED strip or 2. I'm looking for growth and nice color in my sps. I also have a couple clams that will be on the bottom.

I humbly await your advice

 

[d2mini]

With those M80 ballasts, you can't go wrong with Radiums.

 

[Reel North]

They are DE bulbs. Radiums come in DE?

 

[shermanator]

They are DE bulbs. Radiums come in DE?

Yes, but not 250W DE, sadly.

From what I have seen, the XM 20KK DE 250W bulbs are very well liked. I've also seen people praise the Hamilton 20KK DE 250W bulbs (and comment they look like 20KK Radiums).

 

[d2mini]

ah, sorry... missed the DE part.
Switch to Mogul!

 

[Reel North]

I'm strongly considering a switch. I'm looking at the lumenarc mini wides. I also do have 2 22" lumen max reflectors but I think they might be a bit big for a 24" wide. Or maybe not?

 

[m3lacoste]

Phoenix 14K DE if you can still find them.

 

[grigsy]

You may be able to find some Phoenix 250W HQI bulbs around. If not, and you really want growth, go with a 10K DE HQI bulb. Not as appealing vs a 20K especially when on by itself but it will give you great growth. I was told PHX bulbs should be on the market in late May.

 

[gcarroll]

I was a big fan of the 250w Iwasaki 14K DE. Of course that was if I wanted a whiter light than the Phoenix would deliver.

 

[tkeracer619]

Check these reflectors out. This is the way I would go.

http://www.hamiltontechnology.com/item/Cayman-Sun-Mogul-Based-Reflector-with-LED-lights-2190


LumenMax Elite reflectors are very focused so I doubt they would be too big for a 24" wide tank. That's about all they will light (24x24) regardless of how high you have them.