magnetic vs. electronic ballast

[reefguy1]

I have been seeing a lot of people choosing elec. ballast over magnetic....why? Just curious

[Wiskey]

The electronic ballasts use less power; put off less heat, can run any kind of bulb, tend to last a bit longer, fire the bulb cleaner and the bulbs tend to last longer. They do underdrive the bulbs slightly making them put off a little bit less light, but the difference is neglagable.

I know I still have that PM I need to respond to; I'm not ignoring you I promice.
Whiskey

[Hiren]

Everything Wiskey said plus my electronic ballast is completely silent. I've never had it misfire my bulbs either.

I have a dual 250W ballast from Sunlight Supply. Here's a link to the exact unit I'm using:
http://www.marinedepot.com/ps_ViewIt...t~vendor~.html

[Wiskey]

I'm using the ARO ballasts from Hellolights; I'm very happy with them as well.

Whiskey

[Sndwave80]

I have used both and the magnetic tend to have a slower start and a humming noise vs. the electric. Not sure but I feel the electric are more energy friendly too.

[Jflip2002]

Electronic is the way to go for most people. I bought a PFO dual 250w magnetic ballast, I got a great deal from Salty supply. Its an AWESOME ballast, really. But the downside is you cant use certain bulbs, like Giesemann, Ushio, and a couple others. I personally havent had a problem with the noise or heat though. what I DO like is it does infact overdrive the bulbs a little they say. I also think the price of electricity between the two is negligible. I wouldnt let that come into factoringout which to choose. As far as noise... My PFO dual 250w magnetic is quieter than my Current USA electronic 250w ballast.

[Loverotties]

Electronic is the way to Go!