[ReefHog]

I'm getting ready to replace my T5's on my 90 gal and have been looking around. I see them for as low as $12 and as high as $24 for the same color temperature lamp. Why the big difference? Does one company make a better lamp than another? I know that the color can and will be different from one manufacturer to another but are the cheaper ones putting out less light or are they just less accurate as far as the true color temperature?

[charlie]

Tough to say Art. I know if it was me, I would be buying from the "Name" distributor. I try to support the sponsors of the boards.
I think you may have hit the nail on the head when you said does one manufacturor make a better lamp than the other. JMHO

[pearl_aqg]

Make sure that the price differences aren't because the more expensive T-5's are HO bulbs. (HO = high output = more lumens per watt, therefore much more intense even with the same color temperature; however the standard fluorescent ballast on your fixture may not support these.)

Beyond this any price differences are probably related to the technology used by the manufacturer. Depending on the technology, bulbs could easily vary in lumen output or even lamp life (essentially, how long the color temperature holds steady). I wouldn't assume more expensive means better though, with this kind of stuff it's usually best to go with name brands that are trusted and have been respected in the industry for a while.

[ReefHog]

I realize the difference between HO and standard T5 lamps. What I am refering to is that say I am looking to replace my 54 Watt T5 ATI 6500K lamp. I look at the same lamp made by Giesemann which is $6 more than the same lamp made by URI which is $6 more than the same lamp made by GE. I guess I was hoping someone here has used more than one brand and would have some personal experiences and opinions on the lamps. All are brand names available by several sponsers here. Is the $24 Giesemann really better than the $12 GE?

[charlie]

History and reputation would say yes. IMO

I am a metal halide and vho guy, sorry I can't help you more.