can i use a 20000k without using the HQI ballast>?

[naser]

well thats the ?.. im using a 10000k right now i was wondering if anyone uses the 20000k bulb with out use of an HQI ballast? the 10000k makes the corals look to dull. let me know, thanks.

[golfish]

Sure you can, it just wont be as bright. I think I read about 20% less......

I saw a post over at RC that Joe Kelly I selling a 400 watt PFO HQI ballast for 120.00. That might be a little high when you consider MD has them for 139.00

[naser]

see that the thing. ive got two standard 400watt ballast right now. only using one, with a 10000k bulb. i will be buying the parrallel reflector that holds two. so i just wanted to buy 2 new bulbs and not two new ballast also. 20 percent is nothing when you have 2 400watters above a 55 gallon tank.

[golfish]

Didn't you just switch from 12K's to 10K's?

[naser]

yea i liked the color of the 12000's but the corals seem to be loseing all there color with those bulbs. i got a 10000k for free so im using that now. but everything looks so nice with a 20000k so i want to change it again. hopefully the last time.