Anyone know about XM metal halide bulbs?

[trompet3]

I've always used Ushio 250 watt 10k bulbs (2) supplemented with two actinic 03 VHO's for my 90gal.
One of my bulbs just burned out, so I am going to order replacements for both.
Anyone have any experience with XM halide bulbs? A store online is selling them for $65 and the Ushio's are $87.
Any other opinions on any bulbs? I like the Ushios, but am willing to go a little more blue, just want to make sure that I keep good growth though - (Clams, SPS).

 

[trompet3]

Anyone else wish to opine?

 

[trompet3]

also, I've been reading past posts about the XM's and all of them seem to be about the 20k (acting more like a 14k).
Any info/insight on the 10k XM?
DvSKIN - do you have the 20k or 10k?

 

[trompet3]

Yeah, I read that the 20k are more like 14k, but I'm a little curious at how the 10k's run. I couldn't find any past posts on it.
Another option for me is to use the 20k and supplement with actinic white vho's.
I just don't want to sacrifice to much growth for looks.
Also, compared to 20k radiums, how does the color of xm's compare? (I've actually seen radiums in person). Do radiums actually run at 20k?

 

[trompet3]

I'm not getting the radium b/c I don't have a hqi ballast. I only mention it b/c I've seen it - just wanted a comparison of that to the xm's.

 

[trompet3]

bump