Hydrofarm MH Lights & Catalina MH Retros

[danjen10]

I know these are fairly common questions but none of my searches are finding what i'm looking for.

So, if you have experience and wouldn't mind posting I would greatly appreciate it....

1st question: Does anyone use the reflectors and ballasts made by hydrofarm? I know that the bulbs they use for will be low kelvin ratings and I would buy another bulb. I'm mostly interested in the hardware and your experiences. I believe that they supply a reflector that is a dimpled finish (as opposed to highly polished).

2nd question: Does anyone have a MH light from Catalina. They are made (at least assembeled) pretty close to me. I have heard some positive (not really any negative). Also, I actually contacted a person that bought a retro 250W SE with 2 bulbs and he seemed very happy. I have heard their bulbs are marginal and Sanjay Joshi's data shows they perform in the lower 1/2 of the pack on PAR. I can replace the bulbs ... i'm mostly wanting to know any experiences with the ballasts, hoods, reflectors ... etc.

If you are not familiar with either of these ... here are the links to a couple of their products....

http://www.hydrofarm.com/pb_detail.php?itemid=4171#

http://www.catalinaaquarium.com/index.php?cPath=71_7

Thanks for any help / ideas / input.

Dan

[dobejazz]

I can't help with the questions but here is a for ya

[Doug1]

Sorry not familiar with them but I am sure someone will chime in

[danjen10]

Bump and one more questions. Anyone used tried these?

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll...tab%3DWatching

[Fat Tony]

if it were me i would spend a little more on a quality name brand light... i went the eBay route and got a cheap fixture... mistake!

[VWD]

As far as the lighting fixtures, They will work, They are every bulky. Just make sure you get a wattage you can use and get bulbs you want for