whats the difference

[ohio reefer]

i got two MH reflectors with mogul bases coming i need to buy a ballast.
i was looking online and i saw 250 watt dual PFO magnetic ballast for $143 then i saw 250 watt dual HQI PFO magnetic ballast for $239. whats the difference??

also would i be able to sustain a full reef with 2x 250 watt 6500k MH with 2x55 watt CF? i have 120 gal 48x24x24

one more stupid question if it was you would you go with 400watt or 250 watt. i know i can get away with only 250watt , but i was thinking the more the better

tia

mark

 

[ohio reefer]

any opinions?

 

[reefrunner69]

The hqi is for running the hqi (double ended bulbs. If I remember correctly they are overdriven and require a different balast than a mogul bulb.

The PFO ballast will only run the MHs, you will need a seperate ballast for the PCs.

I think that 400W would be better, but the 250s will work well, the 400s just give you room to upgrade and are not too much light for the tank.