[Reeffantic]

Is there really that much difference between a electronic vs magnetic MH ballast when it comes to light output and quality? I will be burning 20K Radiums. The electronic ones seem to be so hard to come by and are so much more expensive.

[dattack]

I think the light output or what we perceive will be different depending not if it's only electronic or magnetic but on the name brand and type of ballast.

I think people go with electronic ballasts because it's warmer to touch, lighter, and only minutely cost-effective in terms of electricity bill. And electronic ballasts are probably more flexible in terms of running different bulbs.

I know most of the people around my area (S. Cal) really like the looks of the PFO HQI ballast (a magnetic ballast) because it produces more of a crisp white with tint of blue.

You have to really look at people's tank and see the coloration before you take the plunge on the ballast.

THis pertains only to the 400W 20K

In terms of white/blue look, this is just a general observation with more blue on the right.

PFO HQI (magnetic-HPS ballast)>Bluewave ballast (magnetic-M135 ballast)>=eletronic ballasts>PFO/Hamilton regular magnetic ballasts (blue with low PAR-M59 ballast).

I did read that icecap have come out with a 400 W electronic ballast which has coloration near the PFO HQI.

[Reeffantic]

Thanks Dattak. A HQI PFO is probably the way I will go. They are definitely more affordable.